Home Articles Posted by Izy Berry (Page 56)
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Most Expensive Hotels in Hong Kong You can Stay at
- Sometimes, we like to do things in style, and our vacations should be one of them. Don’t we all dream of spending a week in a luxury hotel room, savoring life, or sipping juice by the swimming pool. Well, all your dreams can come true if you continue reading about some of the most expensive and luxurious hotels you can stay at in Hong Kong. The prices may range from anything between HK $275 per night in regular season, while it can shoot up to HK $518 per night during the peak season. So, are you up for the game?
- The Upper House
The Upper House hotel is located in Pacific Palace, 88 Queensway in Hong Kong. Being a family hotel, the hotel is easily accessible by car and is very close to all the major shopping areas. Though all the rooms are simply fantastic, you can choose an Upper Suite with Harbor View which includes Free Wi-Fi, Breakfast and Pay at the Hotel/Pay Now as per your requirements. Apart from these, you can enjoy the following hotel facilities –
- Smoking rooms
- Parking facilities
- Restaurant/cafe
- Bar
- Concierge Service (they speak English and Russian)
- Babysitting service
- Laundry service
- Business Centre
- Gym
- Safe box, Mini Bar and Daily Housekeeping in rooms among others
The price range starts from HK $787 per night.
- Four Seasons Hotel
The Four Seasons Hotel is located in 8 Finance Street in Hong Kong. It is a luxury hotel and close to the IFC, at an awesome location. You can choose a King Premier room with Harbor view which includes Free Wi-Fi and a Pay Now option. You can also go for Premier twin rooms, the King Suite with Harbor View, the Grand King Suite with Harbor View which includes breakfast in addition to the above facilities. You can also choose the Deluxe King Suite option which includes a Pay Now/Pay at the hotel option. Apart from these, you can enjoy the following hotel facilities –
- Spa
- Swimming Pool
- Gym
- 24 hour Front Desk Service
- Bar
- Restaurant/cafe
- Business centre
- Laundry service
- Concierge service
- Parking
- Connecting rooms, Mini Bar and Safe Box as part of room amenities
The lowest prices are currently in the range of HK $514, and can go up to HK $518 in the peak season.
3. The Ritz-Carlton
The Ritz-Carlton is located in the International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West in Hong Kong. Termed as the romantic hotel, it can be easily accessed by car and is close to major shopping areas. It boasts of breathtaking rooms, views and pools along with other facilities. You will enjoy the attention of a professional staff, and will be given excellent guest service. The hotel amenities include –
- Concierge service
- Laundry service
- Business centre
- Parking
- Fitness Centre
- Sauna
- Restaurant/cafe
- Bar
- 24-hour Front Desk Service
- 24-hour security
- Indoor pool
- Gym
- Spa
- Car power charging station
- Swimming Pool
- Smoking rooms
- Connecting rooms, Mini bar, Safe Box, Bathroom phone, clothes rack and complimentary instant coffee included as part of room service.
The lowest prices are currently in the range of HK $428 in January, and can go up to HK $643 in the peak season of September.
- The Landmark Mandarin Oriental Hotel
The Landmark Mandarin Oriental Hotel is located in 15 Queen’s Road Central in Hong Kong. Also known to be a romantic hotel, it is close to major shopping centers. You can be reassured of deluxe contemporary accommodation and a top-notch service. You will be offered the largest average room size in any other hotel in Hong Kong. You can choose your rooms from the L900 Landmark Suite which includes Breakfast and a Pay at the Hotel option. You can also choose from the other suite styles such as Suite Standard, Suite and Suite King Room. The hotel amenities include –
- Spa – The Oriental Spa which has a foot spa, fitness centre, indoor pool and a Pilates and Yoga studio.
- Swimming Pool
- Gym
- 24 hour Front Desk Service
- Restaurant/cafe- Comes with its signature Amber restaurant and the MO Bar
- Bar
- Business centre
- Laundry service
- Parking
- Mini bar included with room services
The lowest prices may range somewhere in HK $432 in February, but will hike up to HK $711 in September.
Therefore, these were some of the most expensive and luxurious hotels you can stay at in Hong Kong. You can either spend your holiday with your own pocket, or use your Expedia HK Promotion Code or Agoda Discount Codes to make things a little easier for your extravagant holiday plans.
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Are you ready for Virtual Reality?
Mobile gaming continues to be a highly lucrative market with millions of users. As mobile technology continues to develop, the popularity of gaming continues to soar. Now, we’re seeing a disrupter to the industry- virtual reality. Virtual reality incorporates three-dimensional environments which allow users to interact by using electronic equipment.
Right now, the cost to experience virtual reality is around £1000. That’s because fewer than 1% of computers around the world have the graphics needed for users to get the full VR experience.
The danger is that VR will be forgotten as just another buzzword. But VR has massive potential, and can be used for applications in not just the gaming industry, but also business, travel, and medicine.
Right now, VR is when users put on a headset allowing them to ender a 3D world. They also put on specialised equipment like gloves, masks, and helmets which allow them to interact with the game.
As technology grows, gamers are no stranger to what most consider to be advanced technology. Graphics are becoming more real than ever before, and it can be easy to see why some people assume that technology is at its peak. However, VR offers a complete, immersive experience that allows gamers to interact with the game in ways that they never have before.
The gaming industry has historically been one that takes chances on new technology. For this reason, online gambling continues to grow in revenue each year, and is expected to reach over $59.79 billion by 2020.
It’s easy to see how far mobile gaming has come when you compare it to the old mobile games we used to pay. With tiny screens, bad wifi, and constant crashes, most people simply didn’t have the time or inclination to play online.
Luckily, technology continued to advance. We now have access to smartphones with much larger screens and the computers that make playing games fun and easy. Many of the latest games have promotional offers and bonuses which be used by people using any device- whether that’s a computer, laptop, or smartphone.
Since so many people are using their mobile phones to play online, many apps and sites have banking option which allow players to either pay monthly subscriptions or pay for games while they play. This makes it easier than ever for players to take a few minutes during their busy day and chill out.
What do you think? Are you ready for games that use virtual reality? Let me know in the comments below.
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The Best Motorbike Routes in the UK
Riding a motorbike invokes a sense of adventure and freedom, so it’s the perfect form of transport for a road trip. The UK is a great destination for bikers as it offers some amazing routes, especially if you’re looking for roads where you can really try and get your knee down. No matter where you’re heading on your UK road trip, try to fit at least one of these not-to-be-missed motorbike routes on your journey.
Scotland – A82
If you’re looking for stunning scenery and wild hairpin bends, then the A82 is for you. 167 miles long, this route stretches from Glasgow to Inverness and passes through some of Scotland’s most stunning scenery. On your ride, you’ll be able to see Ben Nevis, Loch Lomond, Fort William and Glen Coe. Make sure you pack your camera, as you’ll want to make regular stops to take in the view.
Southern England – A39
If coastal roads are more your thing, then the A39 is a must. Starting in Bath, running to Bridgwater and then all the way down the Cornish coast to St Column Major, this route offers lots of bends and steep gradients. Ride over breath-taking moorland in Exmoor and pass the beautiful village of Clovelly and the Cleeve Abbey ruins. At the end of the A39, continue your ride and take the A392 to visit Newquay, or join the A30 for Truro and Falmouth.
Northern Ireland – A2
Another coastal route and known as the Antrim Coast Road, this Northern Ireland road is world famous. Beginning in Newry and ending at Kilkeel, the A2 is the perfect road for tourists. As well as panoramic views, rugged cliffsides and pretty Irish villages, the route passes the Giant’s Causeway, where you’ll find more than 40,000 columns formed during a volcanic eruption.
Wales – Bwlch y Groes
Sitting 1,788 feet above sea level, the Bwlch y Groes (or Pass of the Cross) is one of the most popular riding roads in Wales. Also called Hellfire Pass, it runs from Dinas Mawddwy to Llanuwchllyn and is used by Triumph to test new models. Also popular with cyclists, you’ll see picturesque views of Wales and enjoy a challenging route.
There you have it, some of the best motorbike routes in the UK. No matter which you choose, make sure you’re protected and comfortable with high quality motorbike gear and always ride safely.
Have you done any of these routes? Have you got any other favourite roads in the UK? Let us know in the comments below!
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Top 3 Things to do in 2018
I love nothing more than the beginning of a new year, after all, it’s a clean slate, an opportunity to start afresh. This time of year is when I try to figure out all that I want to achieve in the following year, and if you’re like me then I thought you may enjoy some suggestions of things to do in 2018. Whether you’re hoping to travel more, learn more, or put more focus on your health, here are my top thing to do this year!
1. Become More Healthy
Focusing on your health is an excellent way to help yourself become more energized, positive and happier. There are a few ways you can focus on your health, from the physical health right through to your mental health. One thing that I find interesting about our culture, is that we study really hard up until about age 18. After that point, some of us go straight into the workforce and others continue learning at a college or another institution. As soon as we’re done with our formal education, we tend to stop learning anything new! What a huge shame. For 2018 make it your resolution to learn something new, whether it’s by studying math online using a free studying app or something more hands on. You can choose from the best online learning app or enroll in an in-person class or course. While working on your mental health, you can also try things such as meditation which is proven to help lower stress and has numerous benefits for creativity. Exercising regularly, whether walking your dog or playing in a team sport is an excellent way to get more physically healthy too!
2. Travel More
If you’re reading my blog, then I’m pretty sure you’re a travel lover just like me! Travel is one of the best hobbies I’ve ever had because it’s a complete sensory overload. New smells, new flavors, new sights and of course the best part: new friends! Choosing to travel more is a great way to spend your year. I love looking at World Maps and choosing where I want to go next. If you’re finding it hard to find money to get to your next top travel destination, try cutting down on your expenses on eating out such as buying lunch while at work and buying expensive lattes when out and about. This is such a small change you can easily implement that should hopefully leave you with a bit more cushion in your travel fund!
3. Express Gratitude
I’ve learned, as I’ve gotten older, that it’s not so much about getting what you want that really matters, but wanting what you have. Studies have shown that writing down three things you’re grateful for every day can do wonders for your happiness levels as a well overall sense of wellbeing. It’s such a small, fast hack you can easily implement into your daily life! While writing down gratitude can be lifechanging, if you fidn yourself feeling grateful for someone else’s help or influence in your life, take the time to write them a card and let them know!
These are my top 3 things to do in 2018. Do you have anything else you’d like to suggest? Let me know in the comments below.
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How to Pack Like a Pro for a 2018 Vacation
Love it or hate it, carefully packing your suitcase is essential for an enjoyable holiday. It can, however, be a little stressful, especially if you are preparing luggage for the whole family. To help take some of the pressure off, all you need to do is read the following advice on how to pack like a pro for a 2018 vacation.
Consider the Weather at Your Destination
It is important to review the weather forecast before you head off to the airport, so you will know you have the right clothing in your suitcase. If you don’t, you may have to spend your travel money on additional clothing once you arrive at your destination. Learn more about the typical temperatures for the month you plan to visit.
Consider Your Vacation Activities
Think carefully about the different activities you might experience on your travels. Write a list of all the places and activities you plan to experience on vacation, so you can identify the best clothing to pack in your case. For example, temperatures can change when onboard luxurious Alaska cruises, as you might need lightweight clothes throughout the day, but you may need extra layers if heading onto the deck at night. You’ll also want to pack for the cruise itself, which could call for fancy dining attire to a swimsuit and light layers when on ship. You may also want to pack hiking boots for when the cruise docks and you’re able to explore the city you’re now in.
Choose Coordinated Outfits
Pack items of clothing that will complement each other, which will allow you to mix and match pieces in your wardrobe. Not only must your jumpers match your jeans, or your t-shirts match your shorts, but you should ensure you pack complementary blazers or jackets, so you can create different looks to vary your vacation style. Accessories can also shake up your wardrobe, so pack different shoes, scarves, purses, and jewelry.
Avoid Packing Toiletries in Your Suitcase
Unfortunately, toiletries can potentially explode in your luggage during transportation, which could result in you spending most of your first day in a launderette to clean your clothing. Many hotels often provide complimentary shampoo, conditioner, and soap to their customers, and you might be able to stock up on other essentials once you arrive at your destination. It will also provide a little extra space in your suitcase for other items you might need on vacation.
Pack as Light as Possible
Overweight luggage can result in charges once you reach the airport. For this reason, you should try to pack as light as possible to avoid dipping into your travel money. You should also take a carry-on bag, so you will have extra space for much-needed items.
Lighten the load by picking staple items that you can wear one or more times, so you can create different looks, so you will not have to pack too many clothes in your suitcase. If possible, you could simply leave the suitcase at home and take a carry-on, which is ideal for shorter breaks. You also will not have to wait at the baggage claim area once you step off a plane, so you can immediately enjoy your holiday.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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.
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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.
