3 Tips for Traveling on a Budget

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Do you wistfully dream of blue skies and palm trees? Would you love to see the ancient pyramids if only airfare wasn't so expensive? Your visions of a vacation might be more possible than you think. Here are just three ways to see the world without breaking the bank.



1. Book Travel Packages

You can save a bundle when you make travel bookings online. There are countless companies on the web that offer discounts for flights, hotels and rental cars if you book them in a package instead of charging them as individual expenses. You just have to find the deals and negotiate the details.


2. Pick the Right Day

Most people know not to travel during holidays and weekends, but were you aware that Wednesdays are cheaper than Thursdays? According to data collected by travel agencies, the middle of the week offers the lowest prices on average. No one is quite sure why, but it will save you money all the same.


3. Go During the Off-Season

If you don't mind sightseeing in the winter, you can save hundreds on things like flights, travel fees and even admission costs to various tourist attractions. Companies will be so desperate for business that they'll slash prices in ways they wouldn't even dream of during the peak season.


If you'd love to travel but lack the funds, use these tips for reducing costs, eliminating fees and booking the vacation you've always wanted. The Bahamas are calling your name. Are you going to answer?

Infographic - How to be a Successful Travel Blogger

I started my travel blog for the reason that I love to travel and I want to share my experience in every trip that I and my family make.

What's so cool about writing for your travel blog is that, a lot of people can benefit from it because of the tips you share and photos you will feature that will give your readers a reason to enjoy the virtual tour and probably even encourage them to book that first flight to their dream destination.

Not all travel bloggers make it real big out there. I'm am still a long way to go before I can actually claim fame for this travel blog of mine and I have lots to learn. So, this infographic from digitalmint.net is very timely and apt to be shared to everyone who wish to start a travel blog. We all can learn from this.

Source: DigitalMint.net

Travelling With Your Dog

Travelling with your dog requires some planning and preparation, but according to a recent online survey conducted by poller Harris Interactive, almost three-quarters of pet owners worry about their pets if they travel without them. This article offers some guidelines to help make you and your furbaby's trip as safe and stress-free as possible.

Your dog needs an identification tag or microchip with your current contact information, and to have his or her collar on at all times.

Make sure your animal is in good health, and that all vaccinations are up to date. If you are flying or crossing a border, check to see what sort of health certificates will be required.

If your trip requires a new travel kennel, don’t introduce it to your dog at the last minute. Let your pet get used to the kennel before you take him or her on the trip. Place some treats and/or a favorite toy in there to build positive associations, and if possible, take him in the kennel on a short outing to a place they enjoy.

Travelling by air

If you are flying, make sure that you have made a reservation for your dog, and expect to pay extra. If possible, book a direct flight. Familiarize yourself with your airline’s pet policies. For example, a typical airline will require that a dog being brought into the cabin as carry on be healthy, have proof of up to date vaccinations, weigh 22 pounds or less (with carrier) and be confined to a ventilated kennel that will fit under the seat in front of you.

Pack some kibble, a collapsible water bowl and poop bags in your purse or carry on, just in case your checked luggage goes missing. Walk your dog before you head for the airport.

Your pet will need to be taken out of its carrier to pass through the airport’s security screening and metal detector with you, so this is not the time for studded collars and any unnecessary tags.

During the flight, most airlines will require that the dog remain in its kennel. Bring along a chew toy or treat to help keep it occupied. You can also ask the flight attendant for ice cubes to give it.

Larger animals will have to travel separately as checked baggage or cargo in a hard-sided ventilated kennel with no wheels. The kennel must be big enough for them to stand, lie down and turn around in. During the summer months, many airlines place restrictions on or prohibit pets as checked baggage or in cargo do to extreme heat in cities such as Miami, Las Vegas, Houston and Phoenix.

Consult with your vet if you are considering sedating your dog before traveling, as the medication can impair their breathing. Some vets recommend you give your pet Gravol – consult a professional about the dosage. Herbal calming remedies like Bach Rescue Treatment or Comfort Zone are also helpful for animals. Spray some in its mouth, or on its paws for it to lick off.

American airports are now being legislated to provide “doggie rest rooms” for those traveling with assistance animals, and many Canadian airports are following suit. Most are outdoor, but some airports offer indoor pet bathrooms – San Diego’s is complete with a fire hydrant and turf. If your dog is pad-trained, you can always carry one with you and use it in a regular washroom.

Travelling by car

It’s recommended that pets ride in the back seat, not in the front – if you are in an accident, your car’s airbag can injure, or even kill, your pet. Doggie seat belts and car booster seats are also available for the safety conscious. Don’t leave the windows rolled down enough for them to jump out, and be aware that dogs that hang their head out the window can suffer dry and gritty eyes.

Try and keep the direct sun off your pet using a window shade. Give him water and a chance to stretch his legs every couple of hours. If you’re crossing the Canada-US border, be aware that there are restrictions on what types of dog food can be brought into the US – products containing sheep, lamb, or goat are not allowed. Bring your pet food in its original unopened packaging.

NEVER leave a dog alone in a car on a hot day, even with the windows cracked, even in the shade. A car in the shade can be 10 to 20 degrees hotter than the outdoors. On a 78°F day (25.5°C), the temperature inside a parked car can soar to between 100 and 120°F (37.8° to 48.8°C) in just minutes. According to PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), your pet can sustain brain damage or even die from heatstroke in just 15 minutes.

Pet-friendly accommodations

More and more motels and hotels are accepting pets, including high-end hotels.. If you’re travelling in style, New York's Hotel Pennsylvania won the Pet Friendly Hotel of the Year award in 2012. A host hotel for the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, the Hotel Pennsylvania offers a large 24/7 in-door doggie spa including a canine gym with doggie treadmills, a walking area, bathing, grooming, and a beauty salon, a comfort station, his and her doggie bathrooms, and even a canine masseuse and an animal communicator.

John Hoskins is a travel consultant. He also is a proud dog owner and his articles mainly appear on travel websites. Visit the Visitors to Canada insurance link before your next trip.

Choose The Right Number And Type of Luggage For Your Travel

There are several factors to consider when choosing the right luggage for your travel and how many you should take.  Not all countries will have the same baggage size restriction as the US does. It pays to be aware of them too so you can take that into consideration when you choose your luggage and decide how many you will take.

My family and I have been traveling for more than a decade since we became employed in the airline industry. We actually have several luggages at home. I know, how can one have too many luggages. Well, to be honest, we have 2 hard cases and 3 soft ones and because there is 3 of us traveling, having 5 luggages in possession is reasonable. Why you might ask, here's why and some other tips to consider to choose the right luggage for your travel.

Decide on the number of bag you will carry according to the weight restriction and duration of your trip

That is why we have 5 but we don't all use them in one go. We only take a maximum of 3 checked ins and 1 hand carry (usually the hard case stroller to put our gadgets in) when traveling to Asia and Europe. However, it is a different in the US. If we know we are going to shop and not go to other states, we carry the usual allocation of 2 pieces of luggages. In this case, we take 1 hard case luggage for check in and the rest soft ones.

Consider the weight you are willing to spare for a hard case versus the soft one

If you are like me who loves to shop overseas, then consider carrying a soft case because you can spare the extra weight for your purchases. Do carry a small hard case trolley for any breakables you will buy to protect your fragile purchased goods.

Note how many of you are traveling

If it is just you then stick with the airline restrictions in the number of luggages and the weight. Usually, if you are a sole traveler, you tend to carry less stuff so a backpack or an overnighter will be right. If the whole family are traveling then it is okay to have few hard cases and few soft ones to balance the weight around.

Take note of the things you will pack

What you will pack in your bag will be a factor to note of since a hard case bag will be suited to protect fragile objects while the soft ones will be good to carry clothing stuff.

Take your pick.

Easy Travel Tips For Summer

Summer has arrived! Lots of people are already on their way to their summer destination. However, for those who are still on the planning stage of their vacation get-away, it is wise to note some of these tips:

1. Go to a destination where the value of your "local currency" is higher than the destination's currency (applicable to those travelling internationally).

2. Check Internet offers for great deals and discounts.

3. Stay on lodging houses or hostels if you are not the finicky type. If you are travelling with your family, there are youth hostels and bed and breakfast accommodation suitable for your type.

4. Be an early bird! Pay early! Sometimes, airlines and tour operators offer huge discount when you purchase your tickets or packages months in advance.

5. Avoid shopping if you can. The reason for your travel is to soak in other culture, enjoy the scenery and have fun in the local scene. Some trinkets or souvenirs are fine but leave your purchases to that and to your meals if you have to.

6. Stay with relatives. This is a great opportunity to save a lot of money by not paying for accommodation. This is a bit tricky though, it only applies to those who have relatives on other places.

7. Travel as a group. Airlines and tour operators always give discounts to large group travelling together.

8. Bring light and not easily perishable snacks. Cookies and those cup noodles can save you big time.

Exploring Bodrum: The Castle of St. Peter

Thousands of holidaymakers flock to Turkey year after a year to grab their own morsel of sunshine. With plenty of cheap holidays in Bodrum, it’s no wonder that this port city is a popular haven for visitors from all over the world. While there are plenty of excellent accommodation options available from Thomas Cook, try and peel yourself away from the poolside and the fabulous beaches and enjoy your surroundings during your stay. With so many attractions, it’s not just about the sun, sea and sand in Bodrum.  

Built by the Knights Hospitaller in the 15^th century, Bodrum Caste (or the Castle of St. Peter as it is also known) is a prime attraction in the resort of Bodrum and an excellent way to spend a couple of hours if you want a break from the beach. Overlooking the harbour, this majestic castle is open to the public and its grounds also include the Museum of Underwater Archaeology for your perusal.

An excellent example of late Crusader architecture, the castle has stood strong throughout the years. Originally a stronghold to help protect the Knights Hospitaller from the Selcuk Turks, the castle now stands as a monument of historic architecture that can be seen for miles around.

The castle itself is open to the public today and while this alone is enough to satisfy its visitors, the museum provides even more gratification. The Bodrum Museum, or the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, isn’t just a bunch of relics but provides an enriching experience for all who make the effort to visit.

Exhibits take you through the lives of ancient mariners and include the oldest ever excavated shipwreck exhibition as well as antiquities and a coin and jewellery hall.

It’s easy to head for the beach every day and relax for the duration of your holiday but when there’s so much to see, it’d be rude not to sample anything but the Mediterranean. Take a look at the excellent value summer holidays from Thomas Cook and look forward to exploring more of what Bodrum has to offer.

My Travel-Light Tips

The season for long trips is fast approaching. Everybody is gearing up for the hot summer days. We are no exception to that. Right now, I am already picturing in my head the clothes I will take, the shoes I will pack and so on. I just have this habit of making sure everything is in place before the big travel day.

I have always been a "light" traveller because I loathe being inconvenienced by the hassle of unpacking what I have just packed. My daughter has this habit of taking everything her hands can grab while I fix the stuff. She would squeeze in few teddy bears (and when I say few, it's more than 5!), her arts and craft paraphernalia, her thick novel books (and that is plural), her sketch pads, pens, and few clothes. 

We're like those traders peddling our goods on the side streets! Yup, she's a messy packer and we always end up bickering over what to put and remove from the stuff she wants to take with her. Of course, being the mom (usurpation of power I must say!), I always end up re-packing and removing unnecessary items. This happens though after a lot of justifications and a little bribery on the side ("Princess, leave that and mama will buy you new stuff there. OK?"). So in our family, we each have our own luggage. There's no way I am lugging several heavy bags during my vacation this summer!

I have my own system of putting all I can carry in a single trolley bag, just enough to fit the over-head locker. And this is how I pack:

1. Depending on the weather of the place we will go to, I only pack a max of 5 shirts (but I make sure the colors can be mixed and matched to my trouser or shorts). Normally, I just buy the essentials on the destination.

I pack 1 dark-colored jeans to compliment most of my shirts/blouses and 1 trouser. Well, the color actually depends on how you will mix and match but I stick with the basics, like white, black and navy blue. I also take only 3-4 sets of undergarments. If it's cold, I only bring 1 sweater or pull-over and a parka/wind-blazer to keep out the cold. Shoes must match the weather though.

2. I roll my clothes. Yup, roll and not fold. Rolling clothes take up few spaces but of course I do not roll my heavy jacket. I don't bring towels anymore after checking and confirming that the place we will stay in has this amenity. We don't worry much about creasing our clothes because I bring my compact pressing iron.

3. I don't take the normal bottles of shampoo, lotion, conditioner, face moisturizer. I have this small toiletry pouch with tiny refillable bottles for the above bath assortment so I just transfer enough amount of shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and moisturizer for the duration of our whole stay. I also buy a very small tube of toothpaste which we all share so only one of us carry these stuff. Most of the time, the hotel provides these amenities but I still carry my personal preference.

4. As per travelling shoes and slippers, I depend my choices on the place and weather situation and the activity we will engage in while we are abroad. If it's the beach area, I just carry a pair of very light sandal which I also use to go around and a nice loafer for malling or if in case we need to check out museums. I never bring rubber shoes because of the tight security in the airports these days. I try my best to wear something which I can just kick off my feet. Same goes with my hubby and daughter. They too carry light slippers and nice loafers.

5. We use "canvas" luggage. The hard case is durable but it already takes in extra weight so we prefer the cloth. Canvas bags are more flexible and you can squeeze those extra stuff you have bought after the retail therapy sessions.

6. This is just a handy tip, I also carry a big tote bag which serves as my hand carry. Not too big that the entire house will fit and that will call the attention of the check-in agents but big enough to accommodate our travel documents, my purse, mobile phone, keys, small gadgets, and 1 fave book to read. Approximate dimension is 1 ft (H) x 4 in (W) x 1 ft 6 in (L).

There are plenty of sturdy bags in the market so choose a very durable one which has many functional compartments like these:

 

(Both bags are mine)

7. Keep the electrical cords of your gadgets in a single pouch bag.

8. Instead of using those heavy bag tags, I make my own personalized bag tags the size of a calling card which I laminate. I use a thick laminating card to make it very sturdy and use a thick ribbon to tie it around our luggage's' handle. I also write our names inside the bag, just in case.

All in all, the art of packing and travelling light depends on your travel's agenda. Just always ask yourself while packing if you actually will use a certain item often while on trip. And if you answered "yes" then put it in. You need to evaluate the need to carry the item and if it will serve it's purpose for the trip. If not, skip it and leave an extra space for future items to occupy. Remember the reason for the trip! It's not a "relocation."

What To Pack When Going To The Beach This Summer (For The Ladies)

Photo credit: livinggreenmag.com

It's that time of the year again and every beach lover out there must be raring to drive to the nearest beach resort or even fly to a great seaside retreat for a nice soak and tan. If you're one of them, you're probably starting to fill your luggage with the necessities.

Here are the essential carry-ons for your beach outing:

For those who are going to take a flight:
Your travel documents, eg. passport, visa (if required), list of important numbers, hotel vouchers and other travel documents you deem required to take along
Enough cash, debit card, credit card (try to limit the use of this only for emergency)
Your medications in a pillbox, if required

For those who are going via land:
Hotel voucher for your booking
Enough cash, debit card, credit card (try to limit the use of this only for emergency)
List of important numbers
Your medications in a pillbox, if required
Some refreshments/snacks like cookies and water

And the essentials:

• 1 or 2 swimsuits (depending on how long you plan to be in that resort)
• 1 light weight cover-up like a caftan or a sari that can dry easily
• a lightweight mat that you can fold and this is optional. You can borrow the ones in the hotel or resort.
• 1 sunglasses
• 1 hat or cap
• 1 foldable umbrella that you can bring when beach umbrellas are not available or when you're going to the market for sight seeing
• a stylish beach tote bag (go for canvas or the straw kind so it's breathable and sands can be easily shaken off)
• 1 pair of sandal or a 1 flip-flop. My rule here is, you can only choose one. If you're choosing the sandal, it better be water proof or at least, one that dries easily and can be worn fast. It has to be flexible that you can take it to other places and step it on the beach.
• 1 or 2 shorts (depending how long you are staying in the resort.  I will stick to just 1 if you'll be there only for 2-3 nights)
• 2-3 light cotton tees
• 1 pair of lightweight jeans
• 1 lightweight cardigan for that night time relaxation in the cabana
• 1 maxi dress for city touring if you need to
• undergarments - a must!
• 1 small sunblock lotion or if you want to tan, a tanning lotion
• 1 lip balm with SPF
• Toiletries like shampoo, cologne, body lotion and body gel in travel sizes that can fit a small pouch
• A couple of sanitary napkins or liners for the ladies
• A good book
• A nice camera to document those precious summer moments
• An mp3 like your iPod or other small gadget you can play music with

The list may seem long but when you're actually packing them in the bag, they're all compact and will easily fit a cabin bag. If it goes beyond that then that means you're overpacking!

People who are planning for a trip to the beach must remember to pack appropriately for the occasion. Keep it light! Have fun, rest and relax and be safe!

Four Things To Do Before You Become an Expat

With the internet now littered with information, it is becoming much easier for people to move abroad. You can find all the information you need to become an expat within a matter of minutes.

Some people choose to become an expat for the experience, whereas others are following their life long dream and potential career break. Whatever the reason for moving, you need to ensure that you don’t rush the process. Moving to another country can be exciting, but only for those people that have made the necessary preparations.

Property Management

If you own a property it is likely that you will be relying on rental income from that property when you move to your new country. Don’t risk leaving the property under the management of family and friends. Although they will do everything in their power to ensure that the rental runs smoothly, their best is probably not going to be good enough.

What you really need is a professional property broker. They will be able to ensure that you achieve the maximum rental value possible for your property. At the same time, they will be able to ensure that there are rarely any months when the property is free.

Selling Unwanted Items

eBay is a great tool to get rid of all your unwanted items. Use eBay to clearout items that you have not been using over the last 12 months. This will help to generate some much needed funds when it comes to the big move. It is likely that many of the things in the home are not going to be used and are going to lose value. This includes things such as your TV and CD player. It is better to sell them now and if you ever do come back, you can easily replace them.

Putting Items Into Storage

If your long term plan is to come back to your native land, then it is likely that you are going to need some kind of storage facility. Although friends and family might have a garage that they are not using, this is not likely to be big enough. You want to find a local cheap storage facility that can house all your items. That way, if you do come back in a hurry, you know that you are not going to have any hassle when it comes to accessing all of your items.

Check Out Visa Requirements

You will need to check the visa requirements for the country that you are visiting. Some countries are much stricter than others. For instance, an EU citizen moving to another country in the EU can easily get hold of both a residency and a working visa for their stay. Travelling to countries that are outside the EU is generally where the problems occur, as the process and requirements are a lot stricter.

Make sure that you don’t just check basic visa requirements. If you plan to work in the country, you need to ensure that you have a valid work permit. For instance, if you are travelling to South Africa, then you will need to research work permitrequirements South Africa before you leave.

Bio

Alex has been writing for lots of top blogs on the internet for a number of years. Since 2007, he has been writing for blogs, including his own. During this time he has had over 100 pieces published online. Although he writes in niches such as construction and finance, his favourite subjects are relocation and travel.

Visiting London: Top Tips for a Stress-Free Stay

Photo credit: trivago.co.uk

It’s amazing how many people think that a trip to London would involve stress, overcrowded streets and smog in the air, when in actual fact, what London provides is simply incredible. A few days in London can be an extremely enjoyable experience if you know how to work the city without getting overly worked up. The density of the city can be a little overwhelming for rural dwellers but the contents of the streets should be appreciated, at least once, in your lifetime. Here are some top tips to ensure your stay in the Big Smoke is as satisfying as possible.

Accommodation

The temptation of choosing an upmarket boutique hotel may be too much, but before you consider shelling out hundreds of pounds, have a look at the more affordable alternatives. You can book cheap hotels from Travelodge online which will place you in the heart of the city. Ideally located, you can enjoy everything on your itinerary without worrying about how to get back to your hotel and you can check out knowing that you haven’t spent half your savings for the trouble.

Travel

Remember that the cost of private transport, such as the trusty Black Cab, in London isn’t the cheapest way of getting around the city. While it may be your choice elsewhere, consider your options and weigh up the costs. The volume of traffic on the roads can seriously impede your chances of getting anywhere on time and, while overground buses are a cheaper alternative, you’re still faced with hectic congestion.

Instead, consider purchasing an Oyster Card which you can top up as you go - or buy Travelcards if you prefer, so that you can use the excellent Underground network. While it may be busy during the peak times, it’s reliable and fast and will get you to where you want to go in no time. Pay attention to any engineering works so that you can plan your route and keep a pocket-size tube map with you so that you don’t get lost!

Remember to stand on the right hand side of the escalators so that those in a rush can zoom by on the left, and keep your tickets because you’ll need them to get back out again!

If all else fails, you can resort to Shank’s Pony. Often, you will only have to walk a short distance to get between places. Have a look at a proper map rather than judging distances by tube, because it’s very different!

Excursions

Anyone visiting the city will undoubtedly have a plan of action, to ensure they can keep to a schedule and see all the things they are planning to see. Many of the major sights are within walking distance of each other, meaning you can see many in one go.

Whether you want to enjoy a ride on the London Eye or you’re heading for the London Dungeons, make sure you look online for discount tickets before you travel – you can save heaps of money if you book in advance. Plus, the London Pass offers incredible value for money if the sights included make up part of your itinerary.

Most of all, try and stay relaxed. There’s nothing worse than getting worked up because of the hustle and bustle. Try and think like a Londoner and take everything in your stride and you’ll be fine!