Posts by : Izy Berry

Whether we’re holidaying across the UK or taking a trip abroad, we always look forward to our short break away from work. However, did you know that holidays were an idea dating back to Ancient Rome and a lot of wealthy Romans took holidays that lasted two years?

Like we mentioned, we can’t wait to travel, and more people are doing than ever before. So much so, the Office for National Statistics reported that in 2017 there were 72.8 million visits overseas by UK residents, showing a 3% increase on the previous year. This figure is only set to increase even further after a survey of 25,000 British travelers found that 11% of respondents would like to travel more in the future.

With our consumer habits changing, holiday trends are shifting too. But what does that actually mean for holidaymakers, local communities and businesses across the globe?

Sustainable Trip Initiatives

When you think of fair trade, you may think of organic coffee — but you can have fair trade holidays too. Holidaymakers can integrate themselves into the communities who are behind the products we frequently buy!

If you’re looking to learn more about traditions in other countries, there is one stand-out initiative call Meet the People Tours. These trips are organised so that the people living and working in these communities are better off as a result. From visiting development projects and having your ideas of developing countries challenged, you’ll truly feel that you’re making a difference from the moment you arrive to the moment you leave.

Opting for greener measures

We’re still indulging on holidays, but more people are searching for phrases around eco-friendliness in relation to booking a trip abroad. Along with veganism, flexitarianism and other lifestyle choices, these types of holidays have captured the public’s attention and will likely become the norm for future generations who will be more environmentally conscious.

Interestingly, almost 90% of travelers want to travel more sustainably. With such high figures, it’s clear that this is a market more businesses in the hospitality and travel market should be tapping into. You could argue that sustainable travel is subject to a person’s environmental standpoint, and while this is true, the same report also revealed that 46% of people believe sustainable travel is staying in an eco-friendly or green accommodation. There are many reasons why more people are opting for this type of accommodation though. For example, 40% said that they wanted to reduce their environmental impact. On the other hand, 34% said this was to have a locally relevant experience and a further 33% said they wanted to feel good about where they rested.

But these people have been influenced. 60% said that this idea sparked from taking in the natural sights from their previous trips – such as coral and rain forests. Also, 54% said that they had noticed the visible impact tourism had on places that they themselves had visited, while 47% went on to say that their decision was after seeing the positive impact sustainable tourism had on local communities. Furthermore, 32% said they felt guilty about how their holidays impact the environment.

Although people want to intentionally act greener, they also are conscious of the price. As these trips tend to require fine planning and research, they could potentially be more costly than your average trip to Spain. However, 67% of travelers in the report said that they were prepared to spend up to 5% more on their travel to ensure it had a low impact on the environment.

People want to have a new experience when they’re actually booking their trip too. Figures from the same survey found that four in 10 people say that booking sites should offer an eco-friendly filter. Although this doesn’t seem like a step a lot of travel sites are taking, some have began adding pages to represent these trips and advertise them publicly. As well as this, 32% of people call for an international standard that can identify eco-friendly accommodation. If travel companies and hotels acknowledge this growing requirement from travelers now, it could keep them ahead of the competition. Hopefully, 2019 will be the year where we see more sustainable trips!

How to manage everything, from packing to international removals, when moving to Hong Kong

Moving to Hong Kong, even for short-term period, is incredibly popular – and it isn’t hard to see why. Hong Kong is one of the most vibrant cities in the world. Choosing to take the plunge and move overseas is one of the biggest decisions a person can make.

In all the excitement of moving, it can be easy to overlook some tasks on your moving to-do list. Packing, getting your documents in order, and organising international removals might not be the most exciting part of a move abroad, they are incredibly important steps.

Following these crucial steps for moving to Hong Kong will ensure a stress-free beginning to your new life overseas.

Decide what you want to take to Hong Kong with you

When moving abroad, it can be tempting to avoid taking larger pieces with you and only take the bare minimum. But moving abroad shouldn’t mean parting with your belongings – especially when they have sentimental value. Carefully planning your budget means that you should be able to account for moving all of the possessions that mean the most to you. A reputable mover such as Excess International can guarantee that your most precious belongings arrive with you, for a reasonable cost. Sending your household contents across the world is their specialty, so they can ensure it’s hassle-free.

Start packing early

It’s a common error to leave packing to the last minute. With so many exciting things to consider when moving to Hong Kong, organising your things can fall by the wayside. But starting early can make one of the more tedious moving chores more manageable. International shipping warrants a certain standard of packing – especially for fragile goods or valuables. Being proactive with careful packing is the key to avoiding breakages. A useful packing tip is to line crates with bubble wrap and load heavier items first.

Make sure you know your way around the paperwork

Before emigrating to Hong Kong, it is of the utmost importance to have your paperwork in order.

Visas

Depending on your passport, you may be eligible to stay in Hong Kong as a visa-free visitor for up to 180 days. You might also have Hong Kong ‘Right to Abode’ or ‘Right to Land’; this means you can work and live in Hong Kong unconditionally. For example, UK passport holders have a ‘Right to Land’ in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong ID Cards

Everyone aged 11+ in Hong Kong is required to hold a Hong Kong ID card.

Octopus cards

Octopus cards are one of the most important little pieces of plastic you can have with you in Hong Kong. This debit-style card is mostly used for public transport, but it can pay for parking, groceries and vending machines.

What can your international removals company handle for you?

Labelling, numbering and inventorying your items

Items that you’re bringing overseas must be accurately labelled and inventoried. If you’re using an international removals company, they will do this for you as part of the shipping process.

Making sure that your items are with you on arrival in Hong Kong

International removals companies are global logistics experts. Trying to ship your personal effects and belongings by yourself can be stressful, and lead to things going missing or unnecessary delays. A reputable international removals company can take care of the hard work for you.

Every move is different, with its own unique circumstances and challenges. But these guidelines will help you take care of the nitty gritty, so that you can focus on enjoying an exciting new chapter in your life.

If you’re like most people, you may have shaken your head as the bitcoin recently plummeted. This is a great example of why it’s a good idea to invest in things you care about- even if the value falls on the market, you’ll still be able to enjoy how much that investment means to you.

In fact, many different types of motorcycles are seeing the ever-increasing value- especially motorcycles like Brough Superior and Vincent. In January last year, the Vincent Black Lightning sold for $929,000 at auction in Las Vegas. That’s an appreciation of 4,475%. These types of machines appeal to motorcyclists of all kind- not just because of how valuable they are, but because of the nostalgia that goes along with them.

So how can you invest in your own motorcycle without breaking the bank? The best way is to search for custom motorcycle parts online. These include everything from foot controls to electrical parts, seats, drive, and trans, and axles and wheels.

Another good way to invest in your motorcycle? Look for oem parts for motorcycles. There are thousands of parts available, made my top brands like Suzuki, Yamaha, Honda, BMW, Kawasaki, and more.

You’re probably well aware of how important good tires are for your motorcycle. In fact, this is not only a good investment, but it’s also a smart, safe option as well. Luckily, you can find discount motorcycle tires online. These can be sold for a much cheaper price since you don’t need to pay for a lot of the costs associated with keeping those tires in a brick and mortar store.

There are also a number of cheap ways you can upgrade your motorcycle. For example, regularly washing and waxing your bike not only makes it look great, but it helps you see any problems as soon as they arise- and before they become large, expensive problems.

Finally, if you haven’t replaced your helmet recently, now’s the time to do so. Not only will it go with the upgrades you’ve made to your bike, but it will ensure it’s protecting you properly, fitting well, and giving you the ventilation you need.

Are you investing in your motorcycle in 2019? Leave a comment below and let me know which ways you’ll be upgrading your bike.

As we get older, our skin care routine changes. Products that we used when we were younger no longer work the same because our skin is changing. All of the products that we use for our skin are in large sizes. In order for them to fit into our bag, the product has to be poured into a travel size container. With matrixyl, it fits right into your bag because it’s only one-ounce. When it’s time for you to cleanse your face, all you have to do is remove it from your bag and rub into the skin.

Set Your Alarm on Cellphone

When you travel, it may be difficult to maintain your skincare routine. By using the alarm on your cellphone, you can continue to use the products. When the alarm goes off to cleanse your face, just go to a rest stop or wherever you are that has water and cleanse your face. Once you’ve cleansed, just dab a few drops of your vitamin c and e serum and feel like a new person. Once you arrive at the place where you’re going to sleep, just set the alarm again, so you’re prepared for your nighttime routine.

Keep Products in a Small Makeup Bag

A makeup bag comes in handy when you’re traveling. If you’re at a restaurant, you can just excuse yourself to freshen up. When you want to moisturize your face, use 100 squalane oil. The moisturizer is light but does its job. The skin will be more vibrant and youthful looking the longer you use it. No one will know that you moisturized your face because it’s not oily or greasy like other oils. It’ll fit right back into your bag once you’re done and you can go about your day or night.

There are some destinations that just remain iconic in the world of travel. Rome, Melbourne, Hong Kong and…Florida? Just a little Google search of this area of the world reveals a lot about the stereotypes that surround it. You’ll read that it’s full of alligators, elderly people and hot and humid all year round. You’d be left with the impression that really all you get to do is just hit the beach every day and work on your tan, that’s if not pouring with rain, something you also hear a lot about when talking about this state.

But really, is Florida and some of its’ major cities such as Orlando and Miami worth making the trip for if you’re, especially if you’re outside the States? We take a look at some of the lesser known attractions in this fascinating part of the world and prove that it’s not all Disney.

Santa Rosa Beach

Sure it’s a beach but this one is sublime. It’s a quieter, hidden away gem of a bay in Walton County that features a seemingly endless stretch of pure white sand and blue seas to rival any major tourist resort. With a welcoming community and a range of accommodation options, it’s well worth taking yourself away from the main drag to experience some peace and tranquillity.

Blowing Rocks Preserve

This unique nature preserve features startling rock formations, fascinating wildlife and a beautiful landscape. Located on Jupiter Island you’ll need to boats for rent to get there but it’s well worth making the trip.

Bahia Honda State Park

Located in the Keys, this beautiful island features 500 acres of lush, tropical landscape and beaches that make it well worth spending a day or even longer there. Kayak around the island, camp out and enjoy some beachcombing and exploring.

There’s also some great snorkelling on offer so head out to mile marker 37 for a great break from city life and explore until your heart’s content.

Weeki Wachee Springs

A combination of the natural springs and a water park, this destination is a great day out for families. Located on the Weeki Wachee River, there are mermaid shows, kayak tours and rides to enjoy. If that doesn’t take your fancy, then just spend a day relaxing by the river and taking in the stunning surroundings.

Molasses Reef

If you find the underwater world fascinating, then head to Molasses Reef at Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. This fascinating site is open for divers to explore and there are also more shallow areas for snorkelers too.

Florida isn’t all glitz and glam, there are some fascinating natural habitats to explore, relax and stay at. It’s well worth looking past all the stereotypes surrounding this state and finding a different side to Florida that helps to make it the perfect destination for lone explorers, couples or families and is so much more than just cocktails on the beach.

Take some time to research Florida today and see why it’s more than just Disney.

With warmer weather just around the corner, many of us have already been dreaming of the perfect summer break in the sun. According to a recent survey, three out of five British people choose to take at least one annual holiday on our own shores. So what makes the UK such a holiday hotspot?

Camping is a very popular pastime in the UK, as each year, sites fill up to capacity and our favourite locations become hotspots for tourists from all over the country. Camping holidays are also a great way to save money – travelling just a couple of hours by car can transport you to a whole different world, where you’ll be surrounded by nature and beautiful countryside. If you’re deciding on where you should spend your summer staycation, Motorparks Citoren Oldham have put together this helpful guide to some of the top camping hotspots in the country.

1. The Lake District: Baysbrown Farm, Great Langdale

It’s not hard to see why thousands of British holiday-makers flock to The Lake District year after year. Home to the England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike, the Lake District boasts tremendous views of some the most popular locations, such as Keswick, Derwentwater and Windermere.

Baysbrown Farm campsite is situated just below Crinkle Crags, Bowfell, and boats plenty of stunning views. Visit the lake-free valley of Great Langdale for some escapism away from the mayhem of everyday life. The bridle pathways through the valley part the way for some fabulous bike rides that showcase the views of the famous peaks.

2. Cornwall: Bay View Farm

With so many beautiful beaches on offer, Cornwall has been a favourite for tourists from all over the world for decades.  Home to a selection of sandy coastlines and sheltered coves, you’ll feel like you’ve travelled to a whole different continent! The beautiful Bay View Farm campsite overlooks the sandy Looe Bay, making it an ideal place to visit with your partner. Try an outdoor picnic for two with a view! The small fishing village of Polperro is close by with its selection of fudge shops, tea rooms and art galleries. You can even go shopping for a fresh catch of the day to cook on your BBQ that evening.

3. Argyll: Caolasnacon, Kinlochleven

Up in the Scottish Highlands, you’ll find Caolasnacon Caravan and Camping Park nestled amongst some of the UK’s wildest and most beautiful scenery. Offering the opportunity to pitch your tent right by the water makes it a perfect spot for water activities, such as canoeing and kayaking, and of course, provides a constant soundtrack of lapping waves.

The park is also home to various species of rare wildlife. Otters find habitat in the Loch, whilst golden eagles fly above. The site provides a unique opportunity for campers to get away from bustling life and enjoy the natural scenery that the Highlands offer.

4. North Yorkshire: Hooks House Farm, Robin Hoods Bay

As the largest county in England, North Yorkshire has a huge selection of natural environments, quaint towns and sandy shores for tourists to enjoy. Hooks House Farm boasts a high hill location looking over sloping grassy fields that lead to a breath-taking sea view. If you pitch your camping tent in the right spot, you could even enjoy a sunset or two with a glass of your favourite drink in hand.

This campsite is the perfect starting point for those looking to take on the coast-to-coast walk across the Yorkshire Dales, North York Moors and the Lake District before finishing on the Cumbrian coast. You can even find a small beach onsite, where children will enjoy a spot of rock pool fishing. Of course, you can also enjoy the sea waves in the summer months by taking a swim, or a little paddle.