Travel Archives - Foreign policy

How Brexit is Affecting the Tourism in Europe

Published on February 18, 2021March 1, 2021

There is almost no person that doesn’t like to travel. Unfortunately, nowadays, people are prevented from doing so due to everything going on. In addition to all that, the citizens of Great Britain are now facing even more problems when they want to leave their country, and it is because of Brexit, and what it means for UK citizens – travel related. It is a term that refers to the UK’s exit from the European Union, and that made many things difficult, including the trip to these countries. Fortunately, traveling is still possible, but with some changes, and if you are interested and want to visit Spain, check out spainvisa.eu ., and find out everything one may need for such a vacation. And for those interested in the changes that Brexit brings when it comes to tourism, continue reading, as this text will answer many of your questions.

1. Passport regulations are not the same

Passport is one thing that is crucial for any trip outside the country, and checking on time, whether it is expired or not, is one of the usual things we do, but for Brits who want to go to some other EU country, that’s not all. Namely, after leaving the EU, Brits lost the benefit of traveling with no passport and now must follow the same procedure as for any other non-EU country. What this means is that the document must be valid for a period of at least six months, and also, it cannot be older than ten years. If it is expiring soon or if it is older than this period, then what you need is to get the new one. It has a dark blue color, and the other significant difference is the fact that it doesn’t say the “European Union” on the first page. Among all that, it’s always necessary to check visa and passport regulations before the trip to avoid any inconveniences that may occur.

2. Longer border check

Getting in time to the airport has always been a must, but with Brexit, that arriving at the airport time is also changing, and you will need to keep in mind to get there even earlier. There will be some new procedures, like for when you board, checking for a return ticket or even the amount of money you are carrying, and each of them takes extra time. The first one is important to confirm that the 90-day limit period will not be breached, and the second one is significant because it can prove that you are not going to illegally work if you have enough of it for the duration of your visit. These checks will not occur for UK citizens traveling to Ireland.

3. Different staying period

Among all other things, staying in some countries of the European Union is now a little different. Brits can stay in any of them (Schengen countries included) for up to ninety days in a period no longer than 180 days, without any specific permission or visa. To put it simply, this means that after 90 days, you must go back to the UK for no less than 180 before being qualified to travel to any other destination that is a part of the Schengen. A few countries have different regulations, so attending them is not restricted to 90 days, and those countries are Romania, Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Croatia. Of course, visiting for more than ninety days is possible, and you can ask for a visa if you have a legitimate reason, like a work permit or if you study abroad.

4. Traveling with a pet has different rules

Every responsible owner who wants to travel with their dog has a pet passport, as well as a vaccination paper, and these were all the necessary documents for taking pets to the European Union until now. It changed, and what’s required is the animal health certificate, and without that document, the trip is not possible. For those who are planning to obtain the AHC, you should know that it could take more than a month to get it. Arranging the relevant vaccinations take time, so it is crucial to prepare everything on time. It needs to be valid for at least 4 months and received up to 10 days before the trip. The other important thing is that using AHC is possible for only one trip, and for every next voyage, you will need to get the new one. Rabies vaccination and the microchip are also a must, and if you are planning to take your pet to Malta, Norway, Finland, Northern Ireland, or the Republic of Ireland, it will need treatment against tapeworms.

5. Using mobile phone

There is no more guarantee for charges-free roaming in the EU, so if you do not want to have some unexpected costs, the best solution is to verify with the mobile operator. The plan of the United Kingdom and EU is to co-operate and make the roaming free of fees, but it is in negotiating phase. The government is finding ways to protect their customers, and one of them is a limitation of charging on a monthly level. It is £45, and if you require more data, you must opt in to use them. Besides that, the customers are getting the message when they approach 80% and 100% of the mobile data usage. The mobile providers tell that they will not increase those costs, but it is much better to check it before the trip.

The bottom line

This text lists only some of the changes that are taking place after Brexit. There may be more of them, so it is important to keep informed. Travels fulfill a person and make life better. People who travel more often are full of energy, in a better mood, and much happier than those who dedicate their entire lives to work. Therefore, we hope that the epidemic will be over soon, as well as that the consequences of Brexit will not be tremendous, and that travel will soon be normalized.

Where are the Best Places to Live in the UK

Published on December 23, 2020

Travel

The United Kingdom is a country of possibilities. Environmentally diverse, that gives hope to people as an ideal place to live in. You are welcomed with open arms and you can quickly adapt to it because of the enchanting neighbourhood you can have. When people talk about the UK, the first thing that comes to mind is London. But, it is not limited to that area – the United Kingdom’s beauty lies from within. The best places to live in lies outside London – places where you can quickly call home and acquire the sense of freedom that you want. If you are searching for a home or an flat, take a look at the options on for-sale.com. Now, let’s have a look at the best cities to live in UK.

Living Outside of London

Once you take the challenge of living outside London, you will feel a sense of excitement and accomplishment. It can also open up new possibilities and opportunities in knowing your right path. You will also get the chance to explore the UK’s hidden gems – the unique vibes and classic styles. Here are the top places you can consider helping you explore where to live in the United Kingdom.

Birmingham

It is the second-largest city in the UK; locals affectionately call it Brum. Most expatriates see this as an industrial place. But, you can consider this a place of settlement. The industrial vibe from Brum boosts its culture and diverse heritage. You can see this in the shopping practices, building structures, museums, and even the famous canal side dining.

Birmingham’s size can be a great deal because it has various areas to choose from. It all depends on your preference, from a picture-perfect neighbourhood in Bournville, the nature vibe of Edgbaston, to the home of the famous chocolate manufacturer, Cadbury. You can also experience a canal side living experience. The accessibility of the rural landscape can help you discover extraordinary places like Malvern Hills and Cannock Chase.

Glasgow

It is the largest city in Scotland, and it modernized itself decades ago. It was once an industrial hub place, but now has become popular especially to tourists and expatriates. Once you go into the city, you can quickly notice the elegance in its architectural designs that promote Glasgow’s heritage. It is a place to look forward to the future, ensuring that things are in the proper areas as people live for today. This famous city is widely known for shopping, partying, and dining. You can also discover lovely neighbourhoods and friendly locals.

Glasgow is famous for young professionals and students. You can also get the vibe of traditional and modern homes. You can also indulge yourself with an affordable way of living in the Queen’s Park area.

The Cotswolds and Oxford

Education is what you think about when you hear the place Oxford. It is an enchanting dream for great minds and because of this, Oxford is known as one of the best places to live in the UK. Even with a small size, Oxford does not fail to cater to a diverse community. The uniqueness of every neighbourhood is present. You can also enjoy the affluent vibe of the streets and cosy cafés.

As you head west from Oxford, you can enjoy the mesmerizing nature that the Cotswolds offers. You can stand in awe of the 2,000 square kilometres of green hills. The villages also take part in the beauty of the landscape with houses made from local honey-colored stone. If you are looking for a family-centered way of living accessible to famous rural destinations then Oxford – Cotswolds can be one of your top choices.

Brighton

You can choose to enjoy the luxury that Brighton can offer. It stretches along the south coast of England. It has a lot to offer, from the lively streets and the elegance of the homes on the waterfront. If you are family-centered, you can enjoy the pier and the beach. The diverse community is also accepted, having the UK’s largest LGBTQ community.

Geographically, Brighton was known for the name “London by the sea.” You can explore more here – from the cosy hills in Hanover to liberal yet extravagant Kemptown. Aside from the scenery, the way of life here is not that expensive. You can enjoy affordable homes and easily access local necessities like buses and trains.

Cardiff

Caerdydd, the capital of Cardiff, is part of the cities in rebirth. The regeneration process has improved the town well. It becomes more attractive to expatriates who live and work in the UK. In shopping centres, necessities are readily available. There is no boring time for you can also enjoy yourself with sports by catching the national rugby team practice and play.

Being part of the capital can give an impression of the necessities’ high cost – but it is not the case with Cardiff. You can shop for the best yet affordable home. With the geographical structure of Cardiff, you can easily access great deals.

Edinburgh

It is one of the beautiful and elegant cities that you can visit and live in the UK. An ancient volcano wrapped it, making an unforgettable sight. Aside from that, it is a Cosmopolitan capital with Edinburgh Castle in the centre. The castle itself is the centre of the city, surrounded by the magnificent Georgian town and the breathtaking Old Town. Once you settle in Edinburgh, you can experience two of the world’s famous festivals – the Fringe Festival and the International Festival. Because of these international festivals, Edinburgh has become Scotland’s centre for culture.

The Thames Valley and Reading. If you plan to move to the UK, this place can be one of your top options. It reinvented itself to cater to all the needs of the residents. There is a 20-minute train ride to Central London, and necessities and commodities are readily accessible.

You can get the cheapest home deals in Reading. You can also catch exclusive deals and experience once in a lifetime outdoor activities.

Final Thoughts

The United Kingdom is known for its beautiful scenery, amazing people, and mesmerizing culture. You can enjoy possibilities and diversely try and be what you want to be. People often think that it is only limited in London, but it is not, and there are lots of unique places to explore. The above cities are just some fantastic places in the United Kingdom.

Visiting Manchester? A Guide to Exploring a New City

Published on December 14, 2020

Travel

With its rich cultural history, industrial heritage, and jaw-dropping architecture, Manchester is an amazing city for a UK break, whether you fancy going for a weekend or a longer period.

Manchester is one of the UK’s most sought-after destinations, so if you’re thinking of booking a trip there soon, have a read through this guide for some of the best ways to experience the city.

Book Yourself a Spacious Apartment

If it’s within your budget range, booking a well-furnished, fully functional apartment will ensure that you have a comfortable and relaxing stay in Manchester. While this guide is about exploring a new city, you must make space in your schedule for some downtime, and relaxing in a modern and stylish apartment is exactly what you need to do this.

If you’re looking for fast Wi-Fi connection, luxurious furnishings, modern amenities, integrated kitchens with smart appliances, and most importantly, tonnes of space, look no further than website Dream Apartments. Located in all the most sought-after spots in Manchester, luxurious serviced apartments will ensure your stay is highly enjoyable and a trip that you will memorize fondly for years to come.

Book a Guided Tour of Manchester

Guided tours are an amazing way to get the best out of the lovely city of Manchester in a stress-free and structured way. You won’t need to worry about navigating public transport and worrying that you won’t make your next booking in time – a guided tour will take away all of these stresses for you.

You could book a simple sightseeing tour where you’ll undoubtedly experience all of the fascinating histories that Manchester has to offer or go for a more specialized tour.

There are craft beer tours, where you can tour the city sampling the best beers it has to offer, or even a food tour where you can experience the city through all its finest dishes. Whatever you determine to go for, a tour is a great way to see a new city without worrying about booking everything yourself.

Experience Manchester’s Countryside

You might not have been aware, but Manchester has a great deal of amazing countryside to explore, so if you’re into walking, biking, and generally experiencing nature, this would be a great option for you.

You could organize a walk near Dove Stone reservoir, explore the great number of family-friendly countryside walks, or if you’re more hardcore, go for a longer trail.

There are also many cycling paths and routes if you’d prefer to be off your feet; explore Sale Water Park or the Urmston Meadows. Both offer wonderful scenery and marvelous views. With all the art, culture, music, and food to experience, Manchester has a tourist spoiled for choice, but don’t get overwhelmed by all there is to do! This guide takes you through three great ways to make the most out of your trip to Manchester and ensures the experience is a truly unforgettable one.

Places to Visit

Exploring Manchester city is quite entertaining and exciting for the tourists. People interested in the historical background of the place like to travel around and explore many new things. There are plenty of museums, art galleries, etc., that are breath-taking and attractive for any traveler.

There is an Imperial War Museum, which includes collecting historical stories of this city along with fighting fronts. You will also like to visit old and famous churches with palaces. You can discover a lot of things if you are scheduling a trip for the first time. At night, walk on the streets and enjoy the nightlife of this place.

Food

The food available in Manchester is quite delicious and finger-licking. Every week, plenty of cafes and restaurants are inaugurated to please the tourists.

It is advisable to discover different types of cuisines here in different restaurants. You can also get local food with great taste and aroma. If you need to spend more, you can go to expensive cafes and hotels like Hilton.

There is a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, which are a must to try here. If you are traveling with your friends, family, or partner, you should be worried about the locations where you can take them for food and drinks.

You can choose any location as per your desire. There are so many things to explore in the food in Manchester. If we talk about drinks, then you can get the best drinks along with food here. You must get a special Mancunian experience if you are new to this city.

Excellent Weather

You can visit Manchester every month because you will get pleasant weather here. You can enjoy every season like summer, spring, autumn, fall, and winter. The weather in the spring season ranges from 9 to 16 degrees Celsius.

There is so much crowd of tourist in this season. Now, let us talk about summers, it comes between June to August, which is also comfortable and busiest months for tourism. If you love rain, then you can go to Manchester in the Autumn fall.

You can experience rainfall with high humidity and a level of wind. But if you love snowfall, then you must choose the winter season to visit the place. Overall, the temperature is quite good for the entire year for traveling and discovering the city.

Entertainment Activities

Tourists can explore Manchester to experience great entertaining and adventurous activities. There are the best gardens and parks in this city for passing the time.

You can explore the indoor sky, cultural heritage, and other entertaining activities in this city. It is a perfect destination for both solo and group travelers. With the help of a map, you can mark all the places you require to explore.

The Bottom Line

Many people plan for a trip to Manchester to explore the authentic charm of the city. There are plenty of places to discover as per your interests. This guide can help you know more about Manchester and hence, allows you to research more. You can come here with anyone and travel around the city with unlimited fun and joy.

6 Things to Know before Buying a Property in the Caribbean

Published on December 3, 2020

Business/Travel

People do not even understand how beautiful the entire planet Earth is. It is not a secret that today’s society has many problems. Despite financial issues, we have a problem with climate changes, air pollution, etc. However, certain spots on the planet look like heaven on Earth. Because of that, we would like to talk more about the Caribbean.

It is hard to find a person that would not want to travel to the Caribbean. Many of you have probably seen many photos of beaches and nature that you can find there. If those photos seemed beautiful to you, be sure these places are even more beautiful in reality. Unfortunately, the lack of cash flow is usually why people do not come here more often.

Yet, if you lucky enough to have enough money, buying a property here would be a smart move. Having a piece of paradise would mean that you manage to achieve some of the primary goals. Yet, achieving that goal is not easy, and you need to avoid making certain mistakes. That is why we want to talk about things to know before buying a property in the Caribbean. We recommend you carefully each part of our article. Each tip will make the entire process easier for you. Let’s find them out together.

1. Research, Research, and Research

There is a good reason why we repeated the word “research” three times. That piece of advice especially counts for people that have never been there. You need to invest a bit more time to find a suitable property. For instance, the house you want to buy needs to be near shops, and other facilities. Despite that, properties near the beaches are the most beautiful ones. Imagine that you wake up, and the first thing you see is sand, sea, and sky. We are you have the goal of that type. Yet, not all the properties will ensure you that.

On the other hand, some people have money, but they simply can’t move to the Caribbean. The reason for that is simple; they can’t leave their job. Because of that, many people decide on coming here when they retire. Because of that, you should chase for places that have adequate health and other support services.

Postcards are not something you should focus on. Instead of that, turn on Google’s website and find out more about different factors. For instance, check the development of infrastructure including phone, internet, electricity, etc.

2. Ensure that You Have Enough Money

Budget plays a key role here. We understand your desire to move to the Caribbean. However, trying to do that without the necessary money is impossible. Because of that, you need to have a good plan a put all the costs you will have on a piece of paper.

Fortunately, there is a solution that you can use. Finding the Caribbean may be the best possible alternative you will have. However, lenders around the world have similar or identical requirements. You need to show enough proof that will confirm you are capable of repaying the loan. Because of that, research which documents you need to provide to the lender. It is recommendable that you spend a bit more time on that. Your property purchasing depends on the offer you will get from the lender.

3. Collaborate with Real Estate Businesses

As we said, there are many documents that you need to prepare. Finding and purchasing adequate property is a process that lasts because collaborating with real estate companies would be the right choice. These agents are familiar with all the regulations and laws in the Caribbean. You may try to research them on your own. However, keep in mind they are not the same on all the islands inside the country.

Despite that, the real estate agent is familiar with the entire island. Because of that, he will know where to look for the property you plan to purchase. He also is connected with many locals that will give him better information. Internet is powerful, but it sometimes won’t tell you the full story. If this seems like a good option for you, we recommend you check caribbean-escape.com. It is a real estate company that has a long tradition on the island. You should chase to collaborate only with professionals. Despite that, you will also manage to see some of the beautiful properties online.

4. Get Ready to Find Out the True Costs

Let’s imagine that the property you want to purchase cost 20 thousand dollars. You calculated all the costs you have and realized that you could afford to pay that. Yet, there is one small problem that you need to be aware of. These 20 thousand dollars are not the real costs of buying. First of all, there are certain real estate commission fees that you will have to cover. Despite that, there are also some taxes every person that buys property needs to pay. Believe it or not, some islands even require certain upfront payments. Because of that, you need to research all the costs you will potentially have. You can only make useful calculations when you find them out all.

5. Research the Foreign Exchange Rates

The exchange rates are not the same across the Caribbean. That is the reason why some properties are priced in Euros, British Pounds, and Dollars. Your task will be to get familiar with local exchange rates. Certain fees that you have to pay will still be prices in local currency. Of course, you can let your attorney do that instead of you. However, if you don’t hire one, researching them is going to be mandatory.

6. Think about the Weather

Before we end the article, the last thing we need to talk about is the weather. You probably think that the weather is beautiful across the Caribbean. However, some of the islands have a lot of rainy days as well. With that in mind, you should carefully choose the characteristics of your property. You need to have a house that can stand a flood. Be especially careful if you plan to purchase a property near the ocean. Those properties often require additional maintenance fees.

10 Tips For Planning a Trip To Cambodia in 2020

Published on November 5, 2020

Travel

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, 2020December 10, 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. Maybe even visit it beforehand, and use a service like here to check it out.

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”!

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