Travel Archives - Foreign policy

10 Tips For Planning a Trip To Cambodia in 2020

Published on November 5, 2020

For many of us, this has not been our year. Many people certainly had plans for traveling that have fallen through due to Covid-19. But not every country is equally affected by the pandemic, and traveling to Cambodia is still a viable and safe option. Some may think that Cambodia is not a usual tourist destination. But the truth is that natural beauties, cultural sites, and people themselves have made Cambodia a very popular destination for anyone with an adventurous spirit. So if you have a desire to experience something new and different from an ordinary touristic trip, Cambodia is a good choice for everybody. However, while being something new and distinctive is their main selling point, it is also a reason why some preparation is necessary before traveling. Their culture and the country itself may have rules that are not the same as from where you are coming. But worry not, here are ten tips for you if you decide to go on this journey.

1. Concerning the Visa

So first thing first, the initial issue that concerns tourists is the visa. There will be a need for a passport size picture and around 40 dollars. The picture doesn’t even need to be a recent one, although it is a good idea. A bit more expensive would be to apply and pay online right away. But that would be less than 10 dollars more expensive, so don’t worry. When landing at their airport, just go to the right queue, and the process will be uncomplicated and productive. If your choice was to apply over the internet, the best idea is to go over their principal website and to do it a week before going. It is always a good idea to check every single information possible when this topic is concerned, so maybe check out cambodiaonlinevisa.com to be sure about every single detail.

2. Dollars will be more useful than Riels

When it comes to currencies they use, there are two of them. The official one would be Cambodian riel (KHR), but because the country is becoming such a tourist hotspot, the US dollar ($USD) is maybe even more dominant. So it would be best to plan accordingly to that and exchange most of your money for dollars and some for riels. To be honest, the locals will prefer the dollars, but it would not hurt to have a few riels as well, maybe to keep them as a souvenir if nothing else.

3. Angkor Wat

The Angkor Wat temple complex is an absolute must if you are visiting Cambodia. There is more to a vacation than drinking beer and relaxing on a warm beach. And while that is something you can and should do while visiting, visiting their most famous cultural site should be a priority as well. Nevertheless, it is impossible to underestimate the size of the Angkor Wat temple complex. There are over 20 temples in an area of around 250 square miles.

4. The time

Traveling around this beautiful country will require a lot of public transport, and too many of us, there could be something different about it. The main difference we are talking about is time. When visiting Cambodia, there are things you can expect from buses, boats, trains, etc. They will not arrive on time. They will not leave on time. The time listed as their travel time is an estimate. So make sure not to make plans that are too precise. There will be a need for “space” between your connection times. In short, the Cambodian transportation system is not a well-oiled machine. It is an adventure.

5. Tuk-tuk drivers

As in any big tourist destination, caution is crucial. Be aware of potential scams, and whatever you do, don’t pay tuk-tuk drivers in advance. They might ask that you do, they might insist, but don’t. It will be quite likely they will only take you a part of the way, or they even might simply leave. They could also ask for more money once reaching the final destination. That is why it is best to pay once you arrived.

6. The children on the streets

When it comes to scams, children are often involved in them. Naturally, we don’t blame them, but it is an unfortunate fact that adults are using them for their gains. It is only reasonable to want to help the poor children, but when buying their postcards, or even food, you will not help anyone. There is a cycle of crime and poverty that is repeating itself here, so if you can’t be a part of the solution, don’t be part of the problem.

7. Respect their religion

The vast majority of the country is Buddhist, and they have certain customs regarding clothes, especially for women. So while visiting their home, there is no need to insult them by wearing revealing outfits. It could cause a few problems and glances, but we are mostly doing that from respect. If they are good hosts, we should be equally fine guests.

8. Avoid tap water

Some people already have this custom from their country, but in Cambodia, it is much better to buy bottled water. A filtering water bottle is also an option, but whatever is the choice, don’t drink tap water. Amount of problems that are an option if you do is not small and is not pleasant to discuss. It will not be too serious, but it could ruin the vacation.

9. The weather

In Cambodia, the weather can be quite hot, sunny, and humid. Therefore, be conscious of that when packing luggage. Sunscreen is vital – pack a lot of it. When you finish with sunscreen, pack more of it, it will be essential. Other than that, a bandana or a light scarf to cover the shoulders is also a good idea. Remember, we have to cover ourselves, even in that weather.

10. Raining seasons

When it comes to the weather, everyone is afraid of rainy seasons. To be honest, there is no need for that, since the rains only last a short period, and then there is a clear day. For some, that might be even a better option, since the crowds will be much smaller. In the end, it really comes down to individual preferences, so make a decision yourself.

There are many more tips that could help a tourist in the amazing adventure that is visiting Cambodia. But part of the experience is discovering them by yourself. What we can vouch for is that the country has so much to offer to the world, and it is never too late to go and find out what makes Cambodia unique.

8 Important Things to Know Before Traveling to Sri Lanka

Published on November 5, 2020

Travel

If you want to have a once-in-a-lifetime vacation experience, Sri Lanka may be the best choice for you, especially if you prefer visiting distant places, and discover a lot of new things you didn’t know before. This country offers beautiful and exotic places, no matter what type of vacation you want – parties all day and all night, or having a nice and calm time with your partner or close friends. But, is there anything you need to know before traveling there? Do you need special documents, or a visa to enter the country? You can click here to inform yourself about what you need to go to Sri Lanka and check if your country has a visa regime with it.

Your personal and travel documents are the first thing you need to have with you when you go to another country. Check the validity of your passport, book the flight, and of course, the accommodation there, and also if you have your payment cards with you because you don’t want to get lost in some foreign country where you don’t know anyone.

But, once you arrive in Sri Lanka, you will see great and highly developed cities, but also some pieces of their beautiful nature, you will catch the sunny days, live together with the locals, and be a part of their culture and tradition. Also, there are just a few things you should be careful about, and you will have a great vacation there. These are just a few of them:

1. It’s more affordable compared to the popular destinations

Sri Lanka offers beautiful sandy beaches, bars, great restaurants, and everything there is exactly what you need, so you can have the time of your life. If you compare it to some similar-looking destinations, you will realize that it’s more affordable than Thailand or Maldives for example, but it still offers breathtaking landscapes and crystal clear sea.

2. People there are very friendly, but…

Locals enjoy that new tourists come every year. They are very generous and polite, but at the same time, you need to be careful and try not to fall for street scammers, especially those who are getting physically very close to you or even touch you, no matter how friendly approach they have. Also, it’s always better to take your suitcase by yourself, and not let anyone take photos with your camera. There are really nice and kind locals, who will do everything to make your stay there more comfortable, but scammers are present in almost every commercial destination, and you must be careful with them.

3. Don’t mention politics when you talk to some of the locals

Sri Lanka had a difficult past when it comes to war and politics. That was one of the reasons that stopped the country from developing fast enough, so there are still parts of it that should be developed. Locals absolutely want to talk about their job, the kids, and everyday problems, but politics is still a topic that is better to be avoided when it comes to conversation.

4. All the places around are easy to reach

Sri Lanka is not just a beautiful coastline and sandy beaches. You can also travel around the country by train or bus, and reach some of the popular natural beauties, tea fields, and breathtaking views. You can always find a way to travel around, but we recommend you to use the train because the railway passes through really beautiful spots everyone should see them at least once in a lifetime.

5. Exchange the money for their local currency

People there are using rupees, even though they are not the main currency there. Also, Sri Lanka rupees are different than Indian and Pakistani, and you will need to exchange them at the border. It’s better to use American dollars and get the rupees when you get inside the country, because of the exchange offices odder better rates. Don’t give your money to street strangers who say they want to give you a better rate – they are again, probably the same street scammers we already talked about.

6. Don’t forget to try tea

You’ve maybe heard about Ceylon tea and cinnamon. Do you know that the previous name of Sri Lanka was Ceylon? Once you arrive there, you are in the center of the most beautiful tea in the world. People there still refer to most of their home products as Ceylon, and while you are there, you can enjoy the authentic taste of their traditional tea.

7. Local food is very delicious

If you want to try special and exotic recipes and combine unusual ingredients, local cuisine is what you need. You will rarely find pizza and burgers there, so be ready to try new things, especially if you are a fan of fish and seafood. Also, be aware that most of the population is Hindu, and you won’t find beef there, and it’s even better not to ask or order anything that contains this ingredient.

8. It develops very fast

As we already said, this country has a painful past because of the civil war that ended not so long ago. Tourists still find it as a risk to travel there, but the truth is that right at this moment, there is no risk for them to choose it as their next vacation destination. Since the country is developing and getting better as time goes by, it will become more expensive, and less affordable than it’s right now – so you need to travel there the sooner you can.

Just like every popular destination, Sri Lanka was also affected by the current pandemic, and the situation with tourism is very bad right now. But, there is always hope that things will be better soon, and we will be able to travel again, and plan our next summer vacation, starting from now. This country is worth visiting, and you need to put it on your planning map right now.

The Ultimate Guide To Buying An Investment Property In Malta

Published on November 3, 2020

Travel

Malta might seem like an innocent little Mediterranean island, but it’s one of the world’s strongest economies with a resilient real estate market. Whether you’re trying to make the most of the country’s citizenship-by-investment program or just looking to get some government incentives for your business, it’s a great idea to buy property in Malta.

But, navigating through the Malta real estate market can feel like going through a maze. There’s a lot to consider when looking for investment property in the region, and the process can involve some bureaucracy. With an explosion of construction underway, you’re going to have to be strategic about making your purchase. This is an investment, after all.

Agent Or No Agent

How you buy your property is something that should be of great interest to you. Depending on how important service is to you, you could go with agents that charge up to 5% in commission, or you could deal with those that charge only 1 percent.

You get what you pay for, and the more experienced the agent, the smoother the process will be.

Freehold Or Leasehold

This one is not to be overlooked. You must make sure that you own the land upon which your property stands. It might sound a little weird, but there are quite a number of set-ups where someone owns a house but not the land under it.

If it turns out that somebody owns the land where you have your structure, that person can turn you into a tenant in an instant. There’s no gazette price for what a person in this situation can charge you for rent, so it’s best to avoid a leasehold agreement unless you plan on wheeling your property off in a trailer at some point.

Airspace Awareness

Malta has learned to build upwards, not sideways, for the sake of saving space. Contractors in the country often build more floors in what appears to be the roof. Do yourself a favor and find out if anybody owns that space and if it turns out somebody does, consider buying it from them.

If that too is out of your reach, make it a point to buy vetoing rights for any construction that may occur in the future.

Be Clear On What You Want

Decide on the size, locality, and style of the property. If you’re going to buy this property with a partner or spouse, come to a compromise. By deciding beforehand, you will not waste your time looking at a property that you may never purchase.

Malta has a wide range of different properties to offer, from modern villas overlooking the ocean to rustic countryside homes nestled in natural landscapes and exciting new developments that offer fantastic investment potential.

Know Your Finances

Speak to the bank and get a clear indication of what you may be able to spend to purchase the property and other expenses such as refurbishments, cost of the furniture, and any duties and attorney fees. That way, you know what you can and cannot afford.

The Moment Of Truth

In addition to the property’s price, you must pay a notary when buying a property in Malta. You can get one of your own or access one through the agency that you are working with.

The process starts with a little something called ‘konjevu’ or a Promise of Sale. Within this agreement, details of the property’s purchase and specifics must be laid out in black and white. This includes the price, the extent of the property and the duration of the promise of sale, or how long the parties are bound to transfer that property under the conditions set out in the promise of sale agreement.

The Promise of Sale Agreement might include other important considerations such as the possibility for bank financing or the fact that the transfer could be subject to some kind of planning permission.

Three weeks after signing the konjac, the notary registers the agreement with the Commissioner of Inland Revenue, paying the purchase price’s 1% on duty before the deal is closed. Your notary will make sure nothing is owed, there are no defects on the property, and the property being transferred is built according to the approved plan. They will then verify the legal title in the process, and finally, they will have to confirm that both parties have upheld their end of the bargain.

Closing the Deal

You and the second party will have to sign a final deed in front of one or more notaries. Know that before the deal can go through, you should have paid a 10% deposit of the price right when you sign the Promise of Sale.

The notary might keep the money, or it may be reserved until the deal finally goes through. There’s also a notary fee of 2% of the purchase price, but if you’re a first-time buyer, you don’t have to worry too much about that, considering all the government incentives available.

If everything is in order, both parties must sign the final written agreement to be notarized by your trusty notary. It is fundamental that all the owners of the property being sold are present, either in person or by proxy.

The property’s actual transfer happens at the publication of the final deed, and the price is paid at the same time. The final contract or deed has to reflect all of the terms and conditions that have been indicated in the original promise of sale. Within three to six months after that, you can expect the deal to be done.

There you have it, everything you need to know about buying an investment property in Malta. According to maltasothebysrealty.com, before you start exploring the property for sale in Malta, make sure you budget for all the little fees, do your research and keep an open mind.

Discovering Tuscany, even in autumn

Published on October 22, 2020October 23, 2020

Travel

Why go to Tuscany in autumn? So you can discover the elegant charm of an enchanting region. Summer is already a distant memory, and the monotonous daily routine is back with an arrogant air and an unbearable grin. Summer is also synonymous with holidays, relaxation, fun, travel, and so forth. But, who said that only in the heat of the day you have to leave? How about a few unforgettable days in one of the most welcoming and beautiful regions of Italy? Which? We are talking about the beautiful Tuscany, which in autumn seems to capture many tourists’ attention thanks to the elegance of the clothes they usually wear in this particular period.

It is dressed in a thousand pastel colors, with darker colors interspersed with brighter shades, and it usually sprays a sweet perfume on its necks, a refined mix of essences that can only be found here. There are many cities of art, villages, and the Italian regions of indescribable beauty, but Tuscany in autumn occupies the first place ever.

Autumn holidays in Tuscany: cities of art and villages

In this region, where hospitality is one of the pillars of substantial tourism, it is possible to get lost in the alleys of suggestive medieval villages, where time is unknown and moving a few kilometers to dive into the wonders of big cities of art.
In autumn, large cities (Florence in the first place) are not besieged by the most spirited type of tourism, the noisy one, the stormy and impetuous one. No, in autumn, it is possible to stroll unhurriedly through the streets of the main cities and breathe a calm air in the small villages’ heart, becoming an integral part of every reference reality. Less confusion and slower rhythms allow the visitor to admire every detail that surrounds him.

Then, the shades of color of the rolling Tuscan hills embrace large and small urban realities (Florence, Pisa, Lucca, Volterra, Cortona, San Gimignano, Livorno, etc.), frame a picture that is impossible to imitate. Warm colors embrace everyone and everything: a unique spectacle, to be followed in the front row, that is, going to Tuscany in autumn.

A relaxing and tasty autumn in Tuscany

Another reason to spend a few days in Tuscany in the months leading up to winter? Relax in the beautiful and renowned local spas (Montecatini, Chianciano Terme, and Bagni di Lucca) and give the taste buds moments of absolute pleasure with the autumn flavors of a land that loves genuine and straightforward cuisine.

Sources and thermal springs rich in natural elements to regenerate body and mind and seasonal products, cooked following the ancient local culinary tradition, to embrace a land that has something magical completely. And why not take the opportunity to spend the New Year in Tuscany (for more details check ariannandfriends.com) thanks to the many offers available and absolutely to try?
Then, autumn is the period of the grape harvest, the olive and mushroom picking: why miss the opportunity to taste the best dishes of the local cuisine made perfect by fresh and fragrant products? As we have seen, you can find many holiday packages in Tuscany, a region that, in addition to offering the possibility of tourism linked to art and history, has always welcomed tourists. It takes them by the hand to bring them along the long road of food and wine tourism excellence.

Art, nature, well-being, good food, and hospitality: this is Tuscany.

So let’s see what to eat or taste if you go to Tuscany

Famous for its extraordinary natural landscape, from the countryside to the sea, but also for the historical value of its main cities, first of all, Florence, and beyond, Tuscany is one of the most visited Italian regions, thanks also to its renowned food and wine tradition. There are many possible itineraries for excursions with tasting in Tuscany, an area rich in dishes with an intense, full flavor and typical recipes loved by Italians and foreigners, to be accompanied by some of the most prestigious national wines, such as Chianti or Brunello di Montalcino.

Assuming that even vegetarians can feel in a culinary paradise in this region, which makes great use of soups that can enhance the fruits of the earth, such as cereals, legumes, and vegetables in general, from cabbage to beans, for a start to make your mouth water, as a lover of fresh pasta, we cannot fail to mention the pappardelle, usually seasoned with delicious sauces, based on sausage, wild boar or game in general, but also with mushrooms or minced of braised Chianina.

From the crostini of livers to the classic “Florentine”, however, the meat is one of the great protagonists of the Tuscan culinary tradition, always able to conquer even the most demanding palates. Rare or cooked (only for diehards), the adult bovine’s quality in these parts is indisputable. It tasted on the grill, the inevitable steak is excellent throughout the region, but it is typical, as the name implies, of Florence’s city. Its preparation reflects precise and rigorous rules: the meat must be of Chianina quality or (the only alternative allowed!) Of bovine Maremma, the thickness cannot be less than 4 cm. It must be served very rare, generally cut and ready for consumed by restaurateurs, and consumed immediately, hot and juicy. An authentic and challenging dining experience!

Even bread, in Tuscany, occupies a particular place: according to tradition, it is entirely without salt, and there are at least two schools of thought on the meaning of this choice. There are those who argue that the recipe, now as then, provides for its absence due to a tax on salt, in force already centuries ago. On the other hand, others assert that the bread is bland to compensate for the creamy condiments of all the typical local dishes to balance the flavors, especially the delicious ones of the meats and cheeses. Mostly enjoyed in the cold season, with a base of bread, beans and black cabbage, one of the most traditional dishes of Tuscany is prepared, the famous ribollita, a tasty “almost” unique dish, halfway between a soup and a stew of beans.

And speaking of cheeses, undoubtedly the best known in Tuscany is pecorino, with a more or less compact texture depending on the degree of aging. One of the most significant production areas is in the Pisan hills, not far from Volterra, with dairies that stand out for the excellent quality of both pecorino and ricotta and typical cocotte, often prepared with the addition of walnuts, pepper, or even truffle.
We cannot finish – even if there is still something to say and to taste! – that with desserts, in particular, two typical ones: the crunchy cantuccini, one of the greatest confectionery points of pride of Tuscan cuisine, to be immersed in vin santo, a classic sweet dessert wine, and the panforte, a typical Christmas cake that has very ancient origins, a sort of cake rich in honey and dried fruit.
It is appropriate to say “last but not least”!

Exclusive Ski Escape to Austria

Published on October 19, 2020

Travel

Temperatures are falling, and winter is slowly approaching. Do you know what that means? The favorite part of the year for all skiing fans is coming!

Ski fanatics, are you ready for the new ski season? Autumn has started and is slowly leaving, and already in late autumn is an ideal time to schedule your winter vacation in one of the winter tourist centers around the world. The coronavirus pandemic is still going on, and it seems like it is impossible to travel anywhere, but believe me – it is possible! If you adhere to the prescribed protocols adopted by the states, your stay will be pleasant.

Travel agencies have already started offering travel arrangements, such as those at AirCharterService, for the coming winter, so get ready and look at offers worldwide focusing on Europe, and here’s why.

Europe – the old lady with beautiful skiing spots

Europe, or better known as the “old lady,” stretches to 10.18 million km2, and every square kilometer offers opportunities for tourists. Europe is suitable for visiting at any time of the year, especially on cold days when you can go on winter vacation almost anywhere on the continent. Europe abounds in many winter resorts full of ski slopes, spas, hiking trails, and snow entertainment. Many people from all over the world come here to spend their free days walking and exploring, but above all, they come to enjoy the beautiful ski slopes. As countries with the most popular ski resorts, we would single out the nations in whose territories one of the most beautiful mountain ranges stretches – the Alps. Some of the most prominent ski resorts are located in France, Italy, and Switzerland, but the most visited are Austria’s ski resorts. Find more about Austria below.

Austria – The Snow Queen of Europe

When we think of music, we mean Austria and it is capital Vienna, but most of all, when we think of snow, we think of it. Austria is the snow queen of Europe.. Austria is a country located in the south of Central Europe. It is best known as a center of classical music because its capital Vienna has the most famous philharmonic. It is renowned for the New Year’s concert held every year on the new year’s first day. When we mention Austria, we immediately remember the delicious Viennese steak that stands out for its taste. But Austria is even more popular after the snowy weather. This is because a significant part of this country is occupied by the Alps, the most famous European chain. As a result, for much of late autumn and throughout the winter, Austria rejoices in the snow. Apart from music, this country is a popular choice for tourists because of the famous Vienna Christmas Market and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra‘s open-air concerts as part of the market. Still, above all, it is known for its winter season. Want to learn more about it? Do not worry, and our task is to introduce you to the winter season in Austria.

Austria is a snow paradise for every skier!

First morning coffee, fresh air, and lots of snow in front of you. Have you ever imagined this? Then this is what Austria can offer you. The abundance of nature, vast amounts of snow, spas, and entertainment, but above all it abounds in well-arranged ski slopes. On the territory of this country, there are a number of tourist centers with beautiful ski slopes, which are always tidy, maintained, and accessible to every skier. Even beginners can practice skiing here, and there is a great opportunity for those who want to learn to ski. Here you can meet a lot of people from all over the world and have fun. Already want to visit Austria? In that case, start looking at travel arrangements and plan your wonderful stay. Although flights around the world have been reduced despite the risk of flying, there are still safe options such as charter flights to visit these beauties. Reservations for the beautiful resorts and hotels have already begun, and the interest for this winter has already increased since the first snow has already fallen оn the Alps. If you are already thinking about your destination in Austria, we bring you the 4 most popular places in this country:

Lech – a popular tourist destination in western Austria. It abounds in many natural beauties, wonderful resorts, contents for the whole family, and offers a lot of fun. Here you can try some of the wonderful local specialties that tourists from all over the world are crazy about. If you search the internet you will find many positive opinions and good memories of tourists from all over the world. Choose your place of residence and enjoy the beauties of this unique place.

Solden – a popular Austrian ski resort that has a rich tourist season every year. Guests from all over the world come every year to spend the most beautiful days in the fresh air. It abounds in beautiful skiing and snowboarding, beautiful hotels, bars, restaurants, and the hospitable hosts will make sure you never forget your stay in this wonderful tourist place.

Ischgl – a popular choice for all Europeans, but also for the rest of the world. Here you can have a wonderful ski stay that you will never forget. This place captivates with its natural beauty and the contents it offers. Everyone says that the rum tea in this place is wonderful, but also that the local food is delicious. All the tourists who came here left satisfied and happy, and if you ask for experiences you will read that they want to come back again.

Europe is beautiful and offers many opportunities, the most prominent of which is Austria, especially during the winter. We hope that our review of the winter offer from this country has stimulated your curiosity for new magical winter places. If you want to spend the most beautiful winter vacation of your life, then Austria is the right choice for you. Book your accommodation, schedule a charter flight, pack your bags, don’t forget your skis, and of course, see you in Austria. Have a wonderful stay, bon voyage!

7 Travel Accessories That Save You Time and Money

Published on October 15, 2020October 15, 2020

Travel

It’s important to save time and money, particularly when you’re traveling. Both time and money are valuable when you are on the road for work or vacation.

The right travel accessories help you save time and money. We have compiled a handy list below, so make sure to bring these items along on your next trip.

1. Portable Charger or Power Bank

Losing juice on your mobile phone or camera is one of the main problems for travelers. The unprepared folks have to visit a coffee shop to recharge their gadgets.

In doing that, you spend unnecessarily on phone charging fees (LOL – plus you spend money on the cup of coffee…and the pastry!). For this reason, it is best to have your own charger and back-up power supply. Anker makes great, inexpensive products…We recommend checking them out on Amazon or any other consumer electronics supplier.

This travel accessory has many types. You can get single charging banks. You can also get multiple device chargers. If you travel light, consider compact, lightweight units that fit nicely in your small pouch or even pants pocket.

2. Prepaid Call and Data Cards (or Plans)

Phone and Wi-Fi use can rack up costly bills during a trip. When you are on the move, it’s hard to monitor your calls and data use. Sadly, many travelers come home with huge phone bills!

Prepaid phone cards can help save you money. Purchase them before you leave (make sure to buy the right card for your specific destination) to make it easier for you to monitor your data usage. You can buy multiple cards and space out your use of each one. This will help you budget your phone usage to last for the duration of the trip.

If you signed up with a provider, why not inquire about travel packages? Mobile phone companies often give discounted or promotional packages for any add-on service that a client takes on. If you can get a hold of cheaper options like that, you could get even more savings.

3. Travel Water Bottle

Buying commercially bottled water on a trip can take a chunk out of your travel money. Imagine buying bottled water every time you’re out walking the streets. That can eat up your budget for the day, particularly if you are a heavy water drinker.

Save yourself the hydration expenses by bringing your own travel water bottle. You can refill on the go. Refill it at public water fountains. Replenish your bottle after lunching out at a fast food place or go into a mall and do your refilling at a water station there. The less money you spend on buying water, the more money you can use on more important expenses.

Travel water bottles come in all shapes and sizes. If you want to keep your drinks colder for a long time, you can get a double-walled flask that maintains temperatures for over 12 hours.

If you are a light traveler, you can also purchase collapsible models. These take up little space since you can roll them up and drop them into your backpack. Lastly, make sure to get a bottle that is really leak-proof (we can tell you that one from experience)!

4. Multi-Pocketed Vest, Overcoat, or Jacket

Prioritize packing clothing that has multiple pockets. Clothes that help you travel light free up your suitcase, which ultimately helps you save money on additional baggage fees.

Slip into your jacket or overcoat all the items that you can before you go and check your luggage. This way, you can be sure that you don’t go over the weight limit on your suitcase.

Heading out in multi-pocketed clothes also ensures that you bring travel essentials. Having to go back to your hotel room because you forgot something is a time and money waster—especially during COVID-19 where you may have to wait in longer elevator queues.

Touring the city is also more convenient when you have multi-pockets in your vest or coat. You don’t have to keep rummaging through your backpack or sling bag each time you need a small item like your sunglasses, purse, lip moisturizer, or credit cards. You just unzip one pocket and grab that small thing. Time saved!

5. Portable Coffee Makers

A cup of coffee for breakfast. Another before noon. One more coffee for lunch. And another in the mid-afternoon. If you just have to have coffee all day, then a portable coffee maker is an essential travel accessory.

Coffee can be expensive. And when you need multiple cups to keep going, that can amount to a large expense every single day. Having your own coffee maker saves you time and money. There are great little coffee makers that are easy to pack and that make fantastic cups of coffee. These coffee makers have a dedicated filter and an easy brewing method. Then, just throw out the used grounds and enjoy your fresh brew. Now, you don’t have to hunt for a local coffee shop and you could be saving upwards of $10 per day.

If you’re content to have brewed coffee before you head out or after you come back to your hotel, portable espresso machines are another good choice. Some are small, 1-cup espresso makers. Others are compact 2 to 4-cup machines. Most come in carrying cases to make traveling easy—we recommend looking at Nespresso.

6. Luggage Scales

Luggage scales are another great accessory. Often, the problem is not packing for an outgoing trip but packing for a return trip. Most people can board a departure flight just fine.

But the trip back home can be very costly…If one doesn’t pay attention to how much baggage he or she is adding up (all those souvenirs you bought for the kids), the return flight can be very expensive.

Having a luggage scale helps you monitor the weight of the items you are buying while on a trip. Those who love to go shopping while on vacation need a luggage scale to make sure that they can bring back all those things they are purchasing. Otherwise, they may have to leave those items behind, or worse, they may have to pay a lot of excess baggage fees.

Travel luggage scales come in different models. You can choose between analog and digital types. These usually have a hook or some strap you attach to your bags. Lift when you’re ready, and once the scale locks into a number, you get an accurate reading of the weight. So easy!

7. Portable Cookers

Food is a big portion of any travel budget. And if you’re traveling as a family…well, things can get out of hand quickly…

Having your own portable cooker or burner will undoubtedly save you some money. This travel accessory can cut your travel spending by 30% on a daily basis.

Portable cookers come in different shapes and sizes. Some are lightweight and small, making it a good choice for single travelers or even a small group.

You can choose a gas cooker or an electric one. Your choice will depend on your location. Will this be an outdoor trip mostly? Or, do you have more time to stay in and enjoy your meal?

If you’re going on a road trip or if you have access to a vehicle during the trip, then you can bring both types when you pack. Keep one in the lodging place and another in the car or van. This way, you can enjoy your own cooked meal whether you are on the road or at your rented place.

Of course, don’t forget to bring some lightweight cooking utensils and maybe a pot!

Final Thoughts

Now, if you are a tech person, check out the video below for all that amazing tech gear that we left out:

These 7 travel accessories will lessen your travel expenses and save you a lot of time. Bring them with you on your next trip so you can get more out of your trip at a lesser cost.

8 Reasons why New Zealand is a Great Place to Live and Work

Published on October 12, 2020

Travel

Finding a job is always challenging, regardless of your education and background. Naturally, everyone wants to find their dream job, something that excites them, and in the end, the reason they choose a specific college. This entire process can prove to be even more difficult if you live in a rural area, where job openings do not occur often.

If this is the case, then it is time to expand your horizons. We are not only talking about moving to the capital of your state, but you should also consider relocating to a whole new country or even a continent. Well, in this article, we are going to introduce you to New Zealand and tell you why so many people choose to build their life there.

Low cost of living

Before making this life-altering decision, you have to conduct research and gather as much information as possible. One of the first things that surely interest you is the cost of renting accommodation. Naturally, this is something that mainly depends on your hometown and prices that you are used to, but when compared to some of the largest and best-developed countries globally, the cost of accommodation in New Zealand is fairly low.

High standard of living

Generally speaking, people in New Zealand live very well. After all, it is considered to be one of the most developed countries in the world, and therefore, the standard of living here is very high. Yes, you will have to work hard, but one of the great things when it comes to living there is the organization, i.e., you will have enough time to work and boost your career, and more importantly, more than enough time to relax and enjoy your new life.

Great career opportunities

If job hunting is one of the reasons you are thinking about moving to another part of the world, then you have to learn what will be at your disposal. When it comes to New Zealand, finding a job isn’t something you have to worry about.

Naturally, one of the first things you have to investigate is the demand for your skills and degree. This can vary between different areas and cities, but the bottom line is that you will find something for sure.

What’s more, if you are considering improving your education, New Zealand is probably the best place to do that. It does have one of the best educational systems in the world, and the best part is that if you are a permanent citizen, you won’t have to pay for it.

Benefits of foreigners

As you know, a lot of countries in the world aren’t very foreigner-friendly. Nevertheless, this is not the case with New Zealand. Obviously, getting all the documents approved will take some time and effort. There isn’t much difference between citizenship and permanent residency. With the latter, you will have all the rights that citizens do, and for example, you will be able to vote and get free health care.

Health care system

While on the subject of health, we have to say that this system is another reason you should seriously think about moving to New Zealand. We believe that reminding you of how they dealt with the Covid-19 situation is more than enough. We can freely say that the health care system’s quality and organization are at the top level.

When it comes to public care, you will need to have residency status, but this doesn’t mean that you have to be alarmed if you haven’t got it still. Their health care system is available to everyone, but you will probably be required to pay a fee for some services.

It is safe

Yours and your family’s safety is certainly your number one priority. Well, all that we have to say regarding this question is that New Zealand is the second safest country in the world, according to the 2019 Global Peace Index.

Let’s be honest, this is pretty comforting, and it means that the safety is not one of the things that you have to worry about while building your new life.

A peaceful and stress-free life

If you want to move to a country known for its vibrating nightlife, this one is not for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a peaceful and quiet place, then it is time to pack your bags. At first, you will probably be shocked by this way of living, but we have no doubt that you will adapt to it very quickly.

This isn’t a place where everything revolves around the work. Yes, you will have to complete all the tasks and put in a lot of effort, but you will have time for yourself once you get home. You won’t have to be constantly on the run, trying to fit all chores in one day. When you think about it, New Zealand appears to be Utopia, right? Well, for many people, it is.

When it comes to your free time, you can do so many different things, from exploring nature to enjoying delicious food. Whatever kind of recommendations you are looking for, click here to learn about the best restaurants, bars, and even hiking trails in your area.

Friendly people

Generally speaking, one of the main concerns that people have when moving to a new city is how the residents will accept them. For some people, making new friends is quite challenging, and if you are one of them, this is another thing that you won’t have to be concerned about.

Compared to other cities in the world, these communities are fairly small, so the people are very welcoming. You won’t have any trouble establishing new friendships, and what’s even more significant is that they will always be at your disposal and happy to help you. We are not only talking about your future co-workers, but also people in the neighborhood and community. After all, it is crucial that we surround ourselves with friends, regardless of our character, which won’t be too difficult in New Zealand.

Top 5 Aussie Souvenirs to Bring Home from Sydney in 2020

Published on September 21, 2020October 15, 2020

Life/Travel

Australia is a wonderful place to live in and an even more interesting place to travel. What you can experience on this massive piece of land on planet Earth, is impossible to experience anywhere else. It is so big and diverse, you can see all kinds of different animals and even experience several different climates. But, traveling to Australia, especially if coming from the Americas or Europe, is quite rare considering the expensive airplane tickets. So, if you are visiting, make sure you grab a couple of Aussie souvenirs from Sydney.

However, picking a souvenir that is unique to Australia or Sydney is not that easy. When you enter a souvenir shop, there are all kinds of different things that you could easily find back home. What is the point of buying an item that you can find in your own country? That is right, there is no point in doing that.

This is why I wanted to write this article and share the most unique Aussie souvenirs to bring back home from Sydney in 2020.

Boomerang

I boomerang is something that you can purchase from probably every country on this planet, but the ones that you can find in Sydney are a little bit more unique. Boomerang is a very important symbol and part of the history of this massive piece of land.

If you have not seen a boomerang, it is quite an interesting object. It was very commonly used as a weapon and as a hunting tool in ancient times. Because of its unique curved shape, when properly thrown, it comes back to its user. It is made in this way to ensure that the hunter will be able to recover his/her tool after throwing it.

So, you are probably wondering what makes the boomerangs in Sydney so unique. Well, they surely are quite different than anything else you have seen because they are usually painted in a very specific and detailed way. This painting/drawing technique was very popular in ancient times and this is probably the only place where you will be able to find the use of that technique.

Vegemite

Sometimes, bringing home a souvenir does not always have to be some ancient or historical object that is in some way tied to the country or location. Sometimes, bringing food that is connected to the culture of the people in that country is also very unique. So, if you want to bring the most Aussie type of food back home, you should grab a jar of Vegemite.

This is a type of spread that is very heavily used by Australians. The taste of Vegemite is very specific and most people will not like it at first. It is salty and a bit better, but once you get used to it, it goes great with a piece of toast.

When you bring it back home, make sure you tell everyone that wants to try your Vegemite that it is salty and that it is not marmalade or jam. It looks a lot like a jam or marmalade in my blade, but it is the exact opposite.

It may not be the most interesting product you can bring back from Sydney, but it is definitely something very special to the city and the country.

Tim Tams

If you are a fan of bringing food back home then here is another option. Tim Tams is a very popular type of food in Sydney. It is a simple packet of chocolates/biscuits, but it is so tasty and it is quite cheap. For just 1.5 or 2 AUD, you can get one packet. So, why not stock up on several packets of Tim Tams bring them back home.

Unlike Vegemite, everyone will like this chocolate.

Kangaroo leather

What is the first animal that comes up in your mind when someone mentions Australia? It probably is a kangaroo. If it is not, you should probably change your mind about that and ensure that it is kangaroo the next time. They are indigenous to New Guinea and Australia.

The government believes that there are more than 40 million kangaroos living on that huge continent right now.

This is probably the reason why the kangaroo is the symbol of this country and can even be found on their currency bills. It is a very important piece of Aussie culture.

So, if you truly want to bring back and Aussie souvenir, you should definitely consider getting a kangaroo leather product. It can be anything you want. A lot of people enjoy buying kangaroo leather hats. But you also have the option of getting a belt, some boots, or even a jacket. Some souvenir shops sell plain kangaroo leather. But, before you decide to buy anything, you should probably do a little bit of research on souvenir shops as suggested by Kevsbest.com.au.

Ugg boots

Whenever roaming down the streets of Sydney or any other city in Australia, you will notice one thing about the residents of this country. Almost everyone is wearing Ugg boots. At first, they were just another piece of very comfortable footwear, but they are now a fashion statement. Ugg boots are now part of the Aussie culture.

So, if you truly want to bring in a souvenir back home, I would suggest you buy a few pairs of Ugg boots. Keep in mind, they might not look the best, but they are very comfortable and will keep your feet warm throughout the cold winter days.

A cricket bat

Cricket is a sport that will remind you of baseball, but it is nowhere near how baseball is played. The players use bats, similarly to baseball, but the rules are very different. This is also an important part of the Aussie culture. It is a sport that is primarily played in Australia, New Zealand, and India. You will not be able to find teams or cricket-related souvenirs outside of those countries.

So, why not grab a cricket bat when going home?

There are a lot more things you could buy as an Aussie souvenir from Sydney, but I believe that these five items are the most unique and interesting ones.

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