Creating Photobooks or Canvas Prints with your Lovely Travel Photographs
Returning home after spending time travelling can be depressing. Suddenly, you’re not seeing and doing new things every day, meeting new people, and visiting places you had previously only seen online and in guidebooks. Instead, you’re talking to the same people you always see, dealing with your normal 9-5, and accepting the fact that no one else seems to care that you’ve just been in a different country or continent- even if you were away for a long time.
For these reasons, your experience returning home can range from a light depression to full-blown reverse culture shock. Unfortunately, it can take some time to feel normal again, but we have some ideas to help you beat the post-travel blues.
It’s likely that you took a lot of photos while you were travelling, and when you get home it can be hard to decide what to do with them. Sure, you can put them into albums on Facebook and post them on Instagram and Twitter, but they also make excellent personalised gifts for loved ones.
If you were travelling with your family, your grandparents would probably love a photobook so they can see all of the amazing things you’ve been up to, and if you were away with your family and took your own kids, your parents would probably appreciate a nice canvas print of the whole family enjoying themselves.
It can be a good idea to take a photography course or at least learn some photography tips before you go travelling, as this will ensure that you know how to use the light to your best advantage and create the best possible photos for your travels.
There are many different photography courses, websites, blogs and magazines available, and while it can sometimes make sense to invest in a DSLR camera with a decent lens, if you’re naturally skilled with setting up your photos, you may also find that your smartphone can also take excellent photos (and you’re more likely to have it on you most of the time when you’re travelling.
If you’re finding it hard to get back into everyday life after travelling, it can be a good idea to surround yourself with memories of your travels. Choose one or two of your favourite photos- the ones that bring back the best memories of your trip, and get them made into canvas prints that you can then hang up on your walls at home. A photobook can be another great idea, and whenever you’re feeling like you would rather be overseas, you can pick it up, look at your favourite photos and cheer yourself up – you can use a photo book maker to help you do it with no hassle.
This is one reason why it can sometimes be a good idea to pick up some souvenirs when you’re overseas. Sure, you often have limited baggage space and weight, but one or two items that you can only get in a specific country can be nice to have around you at home once you’ve returned.
The best travel destinations to pop the question
Yes, the question is important. And the answer even more so. And the latter depends on location, location, location. Take a bit of time to figure out where you’d like to pop the question to your significant other. This is the key. Here are a few suggestions to help you out.
- Borocay
Borocay is famous for its gorgeous stretches of white sands. Situated in the Philippines, the waters are home to shipwrecks and coral reefs. Imagine being able to pop the question miles away from everyone in the middle of the ocean. Perhaps, when you’re exploring the sandy depths with your partner. Or trek up to Mount Luho, take in the vista, gather your strength and resolve and then ask the all-important question.
- Amalfi Coast
Italy is romantic and everyone knows this. What better place to pop the question than at the country’s Amalfi Coast? Gorgeous beaches, quaint villages and about 50 kilometres of prime estate to choose from for the proposal. The fragrance of the lemon groves will stay with you for a long time to come.
- Rome – Trevi Fountain
While Rome is filled with so many places for the perfect proposal, the Trevi Fountain seems to have captured popular imagination like not much else. And it’s not hard to see why – it’s often described as the most beautiful fountain in the world. what better place to pop the question than in the presence of magnificent art like the Trevi? The waters can be heard from a distance and the sight is one to behold.
- Bali
This island in Indonesia is gorgeous – from its paddy fields and volcanic forests, to its coral reefs and pristine waters. If you want a place of calm and charm, this is the right one for you.
- Sitka, Alaska
If you’re willing to travel the distance, then Alaska will literally and figuratively take your breath away. Soaring, majestic mountains you can take a float plane up to, shimmering glaciers, rivers teeming with fish, and a splendid display of nature in flora and fauna, make this a great spot to propose.
- Venice
How can a list ever omit this eternally romance filled city? Whether it’s the Doge’s Palace or the footbridges over the canals, there are plenty of places to take in the sights and sounds of this ancient city. There are 400 odd bridges to choose from! Take the quintessential gondola ride and lay back on cushions to watch the world go by. It’s a moment of solitude and companionship – a perfect time to ask the question.
- India
The country offers you every possible kind of backdrop for the perfect proposal. From the magnificent forts of Rajasthan to the backwaters of Kerala, no matter what you want – history, romance, adventure – you’ll find it all in the country.
- Yellowstone National Park Ol’ Faithful
It’s pretty symbolic when you make your move next to this iconic geyser; you don’t need words to tell your partner that you’ll always be there for them. National parks have a sense of space and wilderness that’s hard to come by in the urban setting. This makes Yellowstone a great place to pop the question.
- Your special place
Every couple has one of these – a place that is of special significance to them. Perhaps it’s the spot of their first picnic, or the destination they went to their first vacation, a favourite restaurant. Proposing in a place known and loved to both can make the memory of it even more special.
Do remember that the place is not everything. Everything about the proposal needs to be perfect – from the time you do it and the manner in which you do it. A good way to rest assured of a positive answer is to know your partner well. That goes without saying. What can further strengthen your case is a diamond engagement ring. This kind of ring has been around for centuries and is eternally tied to the idea of a commitment. It has value for the giver and the receiver and it is essential that you do your homework before you buy one. In fact, with a ring in your outstretched hand and you on one knee, you’ll have to say nothing at all.
Top Travel Destinations for 2018
It’s a brand new year, which means there are 365 days (or a few less) for you to full with your favourite activities. While many people are sitting down and writing resolutions, I’m browsing travel blogs and Lonely Planet to figure out where I want to head to next. I love choosing my destinations for the new year in the early days of January as that gives me tons of time to save and to map out exactly where I’ll go. If you’re not sure where to go this year and craving a new adventure, check out these top travel destinations for 2018.
Peru:
Of all the places in South America, I personally feel that Peru is one of the best destinations to visit. Peru holidays offer so much natural beauty and adventure, and Peruvian people are so friendly! I spent a few days staying in an eco-lodge in the middle of the Amazon jungle and it was one of the greatest adventures I’ve ever been on. I saw tons of wild animals, caught some piranhas, saw a tarantula on a tree, and even saw some of the world-famous pink dolphins swimming and jumping in the Amazon river. Iquitos is a super interesting city in Peru because the only way to access it is by boat or by plane. It’s a great base if you want to visit the Amazon but the truth is there’s a lot more to Peru: there’s the famous Macchu Picchu which is one of those bucket list destinations. There’s also the freshest, most delicious ceviche in Peru that you’ll ever taste. If you’re a surfer, why not head to Chicama in Peru? Often regarded as one of the biggest waves in the world, ensuring that even beginners can get a few moves in before the wave crashes.
Guatemala:
Can you imagine walking around a beautiful colonial city that’s lined by three volcanoes? It’s almost like walking in a postcard, but Antigua Guatemala is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited and that’s exactly why I live there. Within the town, you can enjoy some of the world’s best coffee, take a coffee farm tour, hike up two of the volcanoes and eat your around this very walkable town. The markets are amazing and filled with wonderful souvenirs. Just a few hours away is the stunning Lake Atitlan, which is often regarded as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. The sunsets are absolutely amazing and if you can visit in November you’ll be spoiled with both excellent weather and striking sunsets. In the North, there’s also Semuc Champey which is a series of beautiful pools, and the ruins of Tikal. Guatemala is also one of the best places in the world to learn Spanish as Guatemalans speak with a relatively neutral accent and somewhat slow. You’ll be able to work with a private teacher for less than you’d pay for a group class in many other parts of Latin America.
Japan:
While any time of the year is a wonderful time to visit Japan, during the last weeks of March and almost all the way through April something special happens in Japan: the cherry trees go into full bloom. Japan has numerous stunning gardens that seem to come to live with white and pink blooms, making for some incredible photos. Because there’s the high-speed train network, it’s super easy to get around and explore a number of cities even on a tighter schedule. Head to Kyoto and visit some of the most famous temples namely Kiyomizudera, Kinkakuji, and Ginkakuji. Do a day trip to Mt Fuji and fill your memory card up with stunning photos. If you visit during the cooler months, don’t fret and head to Onsen – the outdoor spas. If you’re traveling with children, don’t fret Japan is extremely family friendly and there’s also the Disneyland in Tokyo which is regarded as one of the best parks in the world!
New Zealand:
I may be a little biased as this is my home country, but New Zealand really has a lot to offer the traveler. most of the beauty is in the South Island, but it’s really the perfect holiday destination to rent a car and travel around. Head to Queenstown and Wanaka to enjoy some of the best lakeside towns in New Zealand. Queenstown is the home of extreme sports so whatever you fancy you’ll be able to find here, from skydiving, bungy jumping and even white water rafting. Christchurch is usually the base for international flights into the South Island, but unfortunately, due to a large earthquake in 2011, it is still a recovering city. The drive from Christchurch to the West Coast is absolutely stunning and you should be sure to visit the Glow Worm Caves on the West Coast if you’ve not seen these amazing little creatures before. Further up there are beautiful bays located around Nelson and Picton, and from Picton you can take a ferry (with your rental car) up to Wellington the hippiest city in New Zealand. In the North Island, Rotorua is kind of the Queenstown of the North, with a lot of cultural activities and extreme sports available here. The Bay of Islands is one of my favorite places in all of New Zealand, with beautiful beaches and cute small towns dotted around.
Spain:
I’ve been lucky enough to travel around Europe and there’s nowhere, in my opinion, that offers quite the diversity that Spain does. If you’re after beach towns, well you can head to Barcelona, Malaga, Valencia but my favorite of them all is San Sebastian. A small town located in Northern Spain, it’s close proximity to France ensures that this town feels a little fancy. The beach is literally footsteps away from the city center and there’s a beautiful hill with lookout point that you can hike up. It’s easily my favorite town in all of Spain! If you’re looking for big cities, Spain has a few to choose from but Madrid is hands down my favorite. There’s an efficient metro system which makes it super easy and affordable to get around, as well as nightlife that is one of the best. You’ll see adults of all ages, right up into their 70s and 80s making their way to churro shops at four, five or even six in the morning on a weekend after a big night out. Granada is a lovely town located in the South that has a wonderful historical center. There’s also the Alhambra, one of the most beautiful complexes I’ve ever had the fortune to visit. It can be extremely crowded so please be sure to book your ticket in advance, so you’re not standing in the heat waiting around. In Granada you’ll be happy to learn that many of the bars offer free tapas with drinks, making it fun and easy to bar hop around all evening.
No matter where you choose to go in 2018, if you choose any of these locations from my list I’m sure you’ll have a wonderful vacation!
Tips for Dealing With Money Overseas
Money may not be the center of the world and it may not make anyone’s life spin around them. But it is an important part of survival in this day and age – and without it, you are stuck. Especially when traveling to a foreign country, dealing with money can cause a lot of stress and headache and it can be one of the main concerns for most of the tourists out there.
How to deal with money overseas and how to make sure everything is safe, that you have enough money for the entire trip and that you save as much as possible? Read here and find out more.
Never too much cash
Having too much cash with you makes you a complete target for scammers and pickpockets – and honestly, that can happen just about anywhere in the world, regardless of whether you are traveling in Asia, Africa, Europe or the Americas. Make sure you never carry too much cash with you – your credit card is most likely safer, as the thieves will need a pin code to be able to use it and you can declare it stolen the minute you realize you don’t have the card with you. If you’re in search of finding a good card, check out this post on the Best Debit Cards for International Travel. Spending money overseas is a good way to minimise the risks of carrying too much cash as well. Sending money overseas is a good way to minimise the risks of carrying too much cash.
Don’t be flashy
Try not to look like a tourist. Yes, that is an odd piece of advice, but most locals can spot a tourist from a mile – and those who are ill-meaning will know that you are vulnerable in a place you don’t know as well as they don’t. Try not to wear anything too tourist-y (such as “I Love NY” T-shirts, for example), try to mingle with the locals and try to not show off anything that’s too expensive (such as a watch, a very expensive phone or a very high-end camera).
Save, save, save
Being very generous with your spending will eventually lead to being left without money at all. If you want to be absolutely certain you stay away as much as possible and if you want to be sure you have enough money to come back home, save as much as you can. Sure, you don’t have to miss out on all the fun things traveling comes with (such as the delicious local cuisine, for example). But ultimately, you should be very well balanced when it comes to this and you should try to not spend your money on things you don’t need (or at least that you don’t need on a recurrent basis).
Pay attention to currency exchanges
Never exchange money in the touristic areas – you will most likely get the worst rates possible. Also, try to change your money in the local currency before you even leave home. This way, you will avoid any kind of costly confusion.
Last, but not least, remember that withdrawing money from the ATM can turn out to be really expensive on the long term. So you may want to send money abroad and receive them in cash, rather than actually withdrawing them from your credit card.
5 Things to Do as Soon as Your Flight’s Delayed
Travel can be a wonderful thing. It allows you to see the world, spend more time with your loved ones, and explore your hobbies. Unfortunately, just like anything else in the world, airlines aren’t always 100% predictable. A last-minute cancellation or delay could throw your entire vacation plan out of the window, and leave you searching for a way to save your trip.
Even if you’ve spent days carefully planning every step of your journey, a delay could mean that you’re suddenly de-railed, turning your dream vacation into a nightmare. The important thing to remember is that how you react to a delayed flight, could determine just how disastrous the overall experience is. Here, we’ll look at a few of the things you should do when your flight’s delayed, to get yourself, and your family back on track.
1. Know Your Rights
First, it’s important to know what rights you have as a passenger when your airline messes up your travel plans. In most cases, the company you’re flying with will do what they can to put you on the next flight available, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t necessarily apply for compensation too. Ultimately, you’ll need to learn as much as you can about the regulations surrounding your airline to determine whether you could potentially get some money back on your missed time.
For the meantime, remember that if your flight is delayed, you should be eligible to get food and drink for free if you’re waiting to get onto a new plane. Speak to your travel attendants if you need some extra help.
2. Be Proactive
When a plane is canceled or delayed, one thing you can bet on is that the airport staff and gate agents are going to be swamped trying to answer the questions of all the unhappy passengers that were supposed to be on the same flight as you. Instead of waiting around to get the same answer as everyone eels, make sure that you call up the airline’s customer service center to book yourself on the next available flight. It’s generally much faster than dealing with busy agents and a huge customer line.
On the other hand, you could always see whether you can rebook your flight online, using either the airline’s website or the company app. Various major carriers make it easier for their customers to choose from alternative flight options when journeys are delayed.
3. Ask About Hotel and Meal Credits
As mentioned above, even if you’re not necessarily eligible for compensation from your delayed flight, that doesn’t mean that your airline shouldn’t do everything possible to keep you comfortable. When you’re faced with a delay that’s going to take at least four hours or longer to get you onto a new flight, ask the staff at the airport whether you can access any hotel vouchers or free meals. If the airline has the authority to give you these freebies, they will, to keep arguments to a minimum.
The guidelines around what you can access from an airline when your flight is delayed will differ according to the brand that you’re flying with, so read up on the literature online if you’re not sure what you can ask for.
4. Negotiate with the Airline
Ultimately, the best way to make sure you get what you deserve when your flight is delayed or canceled is to make sure that you don’t jump into action too quickly. Don’t accept any offers from your carrier, or sign anything that might allow the airline to avoid paying you compensation in the future. If you move too quickly, you could waive your right to a payment that you deserve at a later time.
Remember to look up your options online, and speak to customer service agents on social media if you’re not having any luck in person. Remember, many big airlines have an active team of social managers available to handle customer disputes when things go wrong. Logging onto Facebook or Twitter could be more time effective than waiting for an agent to become available at the airport.
5. Consider Travel Insurance in the Future
Finally, if you find yourself frequently dealing with problems surrounding delayed and canceled flights, then it might be a good idea to consider travel insurance in the future. While this option won’t be right for everyone, it could be a good way to improve your chances of being able to claim if you’re not eligible for compensation for a specific airline. Just make sure you read the fine print before you pay for anything.
7 Things To Do In And Around Brisbane, QLD
Most people consider going to Sydney, Melbourne or Perth when thinking about travelling to Australia. Sydney’s beautiful harbour, Perth’s beaches and Melbourne’s cultural appeal surely make them becoming the top destinations for travellers. Brisbane, also, as the capital of Queensland, is certainly one of the top travel destinations.
Why Brisbane?
Brisbane is brimming with attractions and all sort of things to do. The city boasts a variety of culture, vivid landscapes and wildlife that you won’t be able to find anywhere else. From music and an incredible nightlife to pretty riverside gardens and man-made beaches, there are a number of reasons why this sun-soaked capital is Australia’s must-visit city. Getting in and around Brisbane will soon become easier than ever before as major constructions for the Cross River Rail are due to start in 2018. This means that Brisbane will have a more efficient public transport system. This makes Brisbane a tourist-friendly city.
Now, let’s take a look at some of the things that you need to see and do while in Brisbane.
Go Whale Watching
Whether you like animals or are simply interested in seeing an entertaining show, whale watching is an activity that anyone can enjoy. It is also an activity that is suitable for people of all ages, which makes it an ideal attraction for families. The whales are generally active between June and November, and you can see Humpbacks playing and otherwise enjoying their natural habitat. In some cases, the whales will make close approaches to interact with their human onlookers.
Spend Some Time at Moreton Island
If you are looking for things to do around Brisbane that will help you stay active, you will find them at Moreton Island. You can spend time looking at marine life while kayaking or actually feed the fish that occupy the waters surrounding Brisbane. If you aren’t looking to spend your days kayaking or going on adventures, you can always spend the day soaking up the sun on the beach at Moreton Island and others nearby.
The Riverlife Adventure Centre Offers Opportunities to Have Fun
Spending time at the Riverlife Adventure Centre is one of the things to do in and around Brisbane if you need structure to relax. There are guided tours throughout the day that help you make the most of what Brisbane has to offer. Activities include rock climbing as well as exhibits highlighting Aboriginal culture along the banks of the Brisbane River.
Have You Ever Climbed a Bridge Before?
When most people think about bridges, they think about roads that are suspended high above the water. However, the Brisbane Story Bridge is one of just three in the world that you can climb. In addition to being an adventure that you won’t soon forget about, the Brisbane Story Bridge offers tremendous views of the city once you reach the top.
Bike Paths are Plentiful in Brisbane
Cyclists should have no problem figuring out what to do in and around Brisbane during their day trip or extended vacation. The city has made it a point to offer alternate modes of transportation for its residents, and the scenic trails made for rides that you won’t experience in other countries. You may choose to either go biking on your own or join a group for a guided tour around the city that is conducted at a leisurely pace. This allows anyone to learn more about Brisbane while meeting new people at the same time.
Take a Trip Down the Brisbane River
If you aren’t into cycling, kayaking or rock climbing, a trip down the Brisbane River may be more your speed. You take a leisurely cruise on a paddle boat while getting a chance to see the city from a new perspective. Many locals and tourists alike believe that you don’t truly appreciate the beauty of Brisbane until you see it from the water.
See Koalas and Other Native Animal Species
The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary gives Koalas and other endangered animals that ability to live their life free from the dangers of human encroachment. While there, you can actually hold a Koala and have your picture taken doing so. There are also interactive exhibits features Kangaroos, which allows you to learn more about animals while having fun at the same time. Staff members are generally animal experts or enthusiasts, which means that they will be happy to talk to you about your favourite animals for as long as you want.
Why visit Brisbane? The answer to that question is that you will have one of the most memorable experiences of your life. Whether you want to watch whales, hold a Koala or spend time on the beach, there is nothing that is out of reach in Brisbane.
Is it safe to travel alone in Sri Lanka?
Whenever you tell people that you are travelling alone, they are often flabbergasted as to why you would do such a thing. Even after attempting to convince them of all the merits of solo travel, the elephant in the room requires attention; it simply doesn’t sound safe!
As a woman from New Zealand, people often tell me that they would be weary of travelling to any country in Asia on their own as they would be fearful of not following local rules of safety which would mean finding themselves in an uncomfortable or downright dangerous position.
Though I have definitely had my share of bad experiences, I always stress that bad incidents can happen anywhere. And since you are wondering about Sri Lanka in particular, I’m here to tell you that it’s perfectly safe for to travel alone there.
Sri Lanka is safe for any traveller, including solo women
In general, Sri Lankan people are very friendly and are more than happy to help you out without making you feel uncomfortable. The country has been experiencing a surge of tourism recently which has made locals much more acceptive and receptive of foreigners.
You will not be treated any differently for travelling alone. Travelling alone in Sri Lanka is perfectly safe, regardless of whether you are a man or a woman. At least, that has been my experience. In fact, locals are almost always going to be smiling to you.
Everywhere you go you can expect to see other tourists, some travelling in pairs, others in groups, and others yet all by themselves. Meeting new people is incredibly easy, especially if you are staying in a hostel or visiting tourist-favorite spots like surfing beaches.
There are certainly some things you should look out for
Like with any other country in Asia, there are some things that you should be aware of while travelling in Sri Lanka. First of all, there is a major difference between touristy places and those populated almost entirely by locals.
In Colombo, you will be perfectly fine with showing a little skin and wearing a bikini at the beach. Outside of it, you may want to cover up your arms and legs and perhaps even wear a T-shirt on the beach, especially if there are no other tourists out and about.
This is even more important when you are near religious sites. The same goes for men but women are expected to dress very modestly so you should at least carry extra clothing with you, such as a long scarf.
Locals might stare but they mean no harm
If you are like me, a white woman travelling on her own, then you will most definitely experience some uncomfortable instances where men will be staring at you no matter what you are wearing.
It’s an unfortunate part of reality and there’s not much you can do about it. However, you should not mistake those stares for something sinister. A lot of those stares will simply be borne out of curiosity and they are not meant to make you uncomfortable or feel unsafe.
In addition to that, a lot of men might try to strike up conversations with you. In fact, I had a lot of people starting a conversation by asking me if I’m married! In those situations, simply refusing them or explaining that you are indeed married will be enough to make them back off.
Use your common sense and you’ll be fine
The dangers that you might experience in Sri Lanka as a solo traveller are not different than the dangers you may face anywhere else in the world, even in your home country.
Using some common sense is the best way to make sure that you will not be placed in any situations that might endanger you, just like you should be doing in any other place.
For instance, you should never keep too much cash on you or flaunt around your wallet, your phone should be kept safely out of sight, you should never walk the streets alone at night, and you should try to stay in groups whenever possible.
Sri Lanka can be a very fun experience for a lone traveller
If you love travelling alone, you will find a lot to appreciate about Sri Lanka. The hikes are breathtaking and there are always people around so the chances of you being lost are slim, at best. You may even make some new friends!
The beaches are also beautiful though you should only swim in safe areas as the currents in Sri Lanka can be unpredictable and you don’t want to be alone at any point as enticing as that might be.
Overall, if you follow your gut and your common sense, you will have a lot of fun in Sri Lanka!
4 Tips for Being a Great Host this Festive Season
Christmas is just around the corner, and if you’re lucky that may mean you have friends or family coming to visit. There’s nothing better than spending this special time of year with loved ones, so if you’re playing host during this Christmas period, make sure to treat your guests well as they’ve come all this way to be with you! There are a few things to make them feel super comfortable, so sit down with a hot cup of tea and read my top 4 tips for being a great host this festive season:
1. Give Them a Tour of Where You Live
While it’s likely they’ve come all this way to be with you and to create some special memories with you and your family this festive season, it’s important to take some time to show where you live. If they’ve been to visit before, don’t fret, there’s always more to do and see wherever you live. Check out Tripadvisor to see if there are any new entries in the top ten things to do in your area. One fun thing I really love to do with out of town guests is taking them to an Escape Room – if you’ve never been in one, basically you are locked into a room for an hour and have to solve clues to get out, it’s really fun! If you
based in Liverpool or heading there for Christmas check out Liverpool ONE for tips of places to go and see. Don’t forget to #GetChristmassy this season, especially with your out of town guests.
2. Make Sure Your Spare Room is WARM
You may have noticed this winter is already freezing and there’s more to come. Make sure their room is nice and warm, keep some spare blankets that your guests can add to the bed if they need to. Make sure there’s a form of heating in the room. Consider investing in an electric blanket or hot water bottle so they can be toasty in their bed. Often we never use the spare room, so pop in there late at night at least a week before your guests come to see how chilly it gets in the evenings so you can decide what you need to buy to keep it comfortable.
3. Slippers
There’s nothing worse than cold feet and chances are your guests won’t bring their slippers from home. Buying your guest a pair each of affordable slippers is a great way to make your guests feel comfortable and as a bonus, you can let them take them home as a small Christmas gift!
4. Set Up a Breakfast Bar
One of the most uncomfortable times when you’re staying at someone else’s house is if you wake up much earlier than your hosts and are just waiting around, hungry. Setting up a breakfast far with a range of cereals, bread, spreads and anything else you want to leave around for breakfast is a lovely way to make your guests feel super comfortable. Don’t forget some tea and coffee!
Having guests is one of the best Christmas gifts you can receive. Use these four tips to ensure your guests are as comfortable as possible!
Top 5 Things to do in Norway
If you haven’t been to Norway yet, chances are you’ve been dreaming of a trip around this stunning country. If you’re searching for things to do in Norway, don’t worry you’ll be spoiled for choice as this is a country just bursting with natural beauty and filled with interesting cultural attractions. I’ve decided to make a list of top 5 Things to do in Norway to get you inspired for your next trip.
- Check out the Fjords
This is probably the main reason tourists find themselves in Norway and with good reason too: Norway is home to some of the world’s best Fjords – in fact you may find it a little challenging to decide just which Fjords to visit as there are so many options. A good way to combat this pressure is to consider taking a cruise that will combine a few Fjords together. You can even search out a package that includes viewing the amazing northern lights as well. If you’ve never taken a cruise before, be mindful that there are lots of things that make cruising a very enjoyable and relaxing holiday. From the on board entertainment to the ease of not having to pack and unpack every day, a cruise can be a perfect addition to any holiday. So if you’re feeling overwhelmed about getting to the Fjords, about seeing as many as you wish on your trip, or just desperate for a holiday that feels like a holiday, consider going on a Norway Tours, Norwegian fjords cruise.
- The Northern Lights
While I have never personally seen the Northern Lights, it is definitely a dream of mine. I’ve seen time lapse footage and numerous photos and when the Northern Lights are dancing in the sky, it looks like pure wonder. The best time of year to see the Northern Lights is generally from around November through to March, when the weather is coolest and the night’s sky is clearest. You can go on a cruise as mentioned above to get an excellent view, or there are simple overnight trips that can be arranged. Norway is a great place to see the Northern Lights due in part to its location in the far north and also because there’s relatively low levels of pollution over Norway. If this isn’t on your travel bucket list, you may want to add it now!
- Vigeland Museum
If you love art and sculpture, then you may not want to leave. Vineland was a famous sculptor and now this museum is home to numerous pieces of his work. You can walk around the park, which is free to visit and is especially lovely on a sunny day. Be warned that many of the sculptures are of naked people, which is extremely common in Europe, but if this offends you at all it’s best to know in advance!
- The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History
When you visit this museum, you’ll feel as if you’re walking through time. This is an outdoor museum that shows you exactly how it was to live in Norway during the more ancient times, to how people now live. The museum itself is quite large, so be prepared to spend a few hours walking around the exhibitions. There’s also an exhibit focused exclusively on the vikings and their way of life. Learn more about the rich and interesting history of Norway and its people. Take your camera as chances are you’ll want to snap a bunch of photos here, especially of some of the houses that are from hundreds of years ago!
- Mount Floyen and the Funicular
From the top of Mount Floyen you’ll find a beautiful view of Bergen, you can decide to walk up or take the funicular. There’s a lot less tourists on the path than in the funicular, so it can be wise to go in the opposite direction to the crowds – for example walking up and taking the funicular down. It’s also a good idea to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon, once the people from cruise ships have returned to the ship for the evening. No matter the weather, it’s worth making the journey up to get a wonderful and expansive view. Don’t forget to charge your camera or phone so you can snap a few good pics from the top lookout point! At the top there’s also a bar and restaurant, so consider staying for a drink or two while enjoying the wonderful views.
No matter how long you have in Norway, there’s tons to see and do, especially involving nature. Check out some of these top destinations so that you can make the most of your trip to Norway!
How to save money while travelling
If you’re planning a trip, you could be forgiven for assuming you need thousands of dollars in order for it to be “Instagramable.” But it is possible to have an amazing trip without breaking the bank. Here are some ways you can save money while travelling:
Do your homework
When you’re planning your trip, spend plenty of time doing enough research on your destination that you know which tourist traps to avoid. If you don’t have your heart set on a particular destination, choose a city or country where you get the most bang for your buck. There are often free days for tourist sites and museum, so be sure to check these websites before you go to see if they offer discounts or free visiting hours.
Travel slowly
If you’re taking a vacation, it’s easy to feel like you need to travel rapidly and see as much as you can. But if you can save up those holiday days or wait until you’re between jobs before you travel, you’ll have much more time up your sleeve. Travelling slowly allows you to really get to know a region. When you’re constantly catching flights and taking train journeys and bus trips, you’ll notice that not only will your budget suffer, you’ll feel continually exhausted.
Use the apps
Smartphones have made life so much easier. Gone are the days of guidebooks or tracking how much you’ve spent in a notebook. Now you can browse top cashback apps or stay on budget with a free apple money organizer or the best travel expense tracker app. Along with helping your wallet, there are a number of great apps that simply make travel easier and keep you organized. Check out TripIt, Skyscanner, Gate Guru, and more.
Use reward points
Depending on the benefits and program for your credit cards, you may be able to use credit card points for frequent flyer points and accommodation costs. Many credit cards also offer a large sign-up bonus with points and miles, and you can earn extra points by using those particular cards to book your travel.
Eat local food
When you’re travelling long-term, you’ll eventually crave a taste of home and it’s natural to grab a burger and fries. But if you’re on vacation, stick to delicious local food. This is particularly true in places like Southeast Asia where local food will be much tastier than any “Western” food, and you can eat like a King for just a few dollars.
Learn to negotiate
While negotiating can feel awkward, in certain parts of the world it’s expected. If you’re staying somewhere for a week or longer, you may be able to get a cheaper rate or upgrade when checking in. If a group of tourists plan to take a tour, you can often negotiate bulk pricing.
However, keep in mind that in many parts of the world, you may save a couple of bucks but that could mean a lot to the person you’re negotiating with. Be smart and respectful.
Are you planning a trip? What are your top tips for saving money while travelling? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think.