Author Archives: Howard McLaughlin

Solo Travel Tips for Women

Solo travel is useful especially for women, they help in developing independence, self-love, and confidence. Lack of travel partners should never stop you from exploring the world. Here are tips that will guide you when planning for that solo female travel:

Stay Confident

A solo female traveler can be easily intimidated by strangers compared to male travelers. You have to be confident to remain comfortable and calm at all times. Confidence will make you be able to trust your choices and face whatever comes your way.

Solo travelers who look confused attract unnecessary attention, people will notice you’re lost. Walk as if you know where you’re going and if you have to ask for directions do it with confidence. In difficult situations trust your judgment or seek help.

Learn Basics about the Locals

Not being able to blend in can be a disadvantage to many solo travelers not only women. It is important to learn a few things about the locals so that you don’t have to always look like a tourist. Start by learning some words like asking for basic needs and directions.

This is useful especially when you’re getting services, it prevents you from getting ripped off. Most locals respect tourists who have made an effort to learn one or two things. Try to carry yourself and dress like the local women. Avoid outfits that definitely show you’re a tourist. If the locals dress conservatively, dress the same, that way you’ll not be singled out.

Enjoy Responsibly

One thing you should never forget is that this is a solo trip. The rule of thumb is to avoid overindulging. Alcohol can be both a friend and an enemy of solo travelers. Enjoy a drink with a fellow traveler or local but don’t take too much you might end up being vulnerable and people taking advantage.

If you meet people they usually want to invite you for a few drinks, a night out or a party. Always be aware of your surrounding and drink moderately. For you not to get drunk easily, have a bottle of water to neutralize alcohol levels. If you feel uneasy or uncomfortable in a club, the bartender is the best person to approach. They will get you help once they realize you’re in danger.

Travel during the Day

Traveling at night especially to a new place is not always a good idea. In a new place at night even the familiar areas can make you look lost. A female tourist will attract a lot of attention at night than during the day.

It’s almost impossible to ask for directions at night because you don’t know who to trust. If you have to travel at might use a safe means of transport. Several online cabs are safe depending on your location. In case you don’t feel safe there’s an option of writing an automatic message about your safety.

Selecting a Boat for Offshore Cruising

Choosing a cruise boat is one of the most imperative decisions that you can make if you are planning for the offshore voyage. This is usually the pivot as far as going cruising is concerned. Most people do not know what factors to consider when choosing the right boat for cruising. Click here for more information on the Boat Lagoon Cruises. This blog explores some of these factors.

Considerations

Cost, size, and time

The cost and size are important when selecting the boat for cruising. The size of the boat will directly affect the cruising costs. The size of the boat not only affects the initial purchase but the cost that will be incurred to do the outfitting. It has been found out that outfitting a stock for a new boat for great distance cruising can take more than 50 percent of the initial purchase.

The size of the boat may require additional equipment which may translate to additional cost. The safety gear, ground tackle, and additional sail are the other factors that can cause the costs to go up.

Crew

The crew is another critical factor that you should consider when choosing a boat. If your crew is large you will need a larger boat to accommodate everyone. The crew size will have to satisfy the insurance requirements which are usually costly as well. The crew difficulties are one of the most common problems that the cruising boats face. The logistics that is involved in organizing the different crew members is another critical factor that makes cruising expensive.

Purchasing options

The purchasing option is another critical factor that should be considered when purchasing the boat for offshore cruising. The new production boat is one of the purchasing option that is available. These boats are usually of the highest quality and expensive.

Custom built boat

The custom built boat is another option that is available. Having a semi-custom or boat custom usually takes more time and money. However, these kinds of boats are usually exactly what is required by the individual. However, the resale value of the custom built boat is usually not as high as the cost that is incurred when buying them.

Used boat

At times compromise is a great weapon when purchasing the boat for offshore cruising. Chances are that you might not find the right boat but you may need to compromise. Chances are you may not find any boat in your price range that exactly meets all of your criteria so be prepared to be flexible and keep an open mind as you learn more about what makes a safe and comfortable offshore boat.

How To Hire A Camping Van

During the holidays there are numerous activities one can consider doing to make their holidays so much fun. Going for camping is such a nice and adventurous experience. However, some things are a must have when going for camping. Some of the necessary things are sleeping bags, a tent and means of transport to get you to your camping site. For transport, one needs to hire a classic camper. There are many transport companies which have camping vans for hire. Here is how to hire a camping van.

Tips when hiring a camping van

Visit the rental company

This should be done after one has researched on the various rental companies and has settled on one they feel the best. One should then visit the company and look around at the different camping vans they have. After that, they can single out the model they want and its specifications. They can then settle on one which they feel will be sufficient for them and their camping stuff.

Get all the information you need

One should discuss with the service provider all the information deemed necessary before they take the van. One should get clear information on the model, its fuel consumption, the costs that will be incurred and any other expenses. The provider can also advise them on which van to go for since they are the experts on their vehicles and what they can do.

Do a thorough inspection of the vehicle

One should ensure they inspect the vehicle very well to ensure everything is ok. Check out the interior, the last service dates, confirm when the next service falls to ensure it does not fall on the day which you will have the van. One can also check the air con if it’s working properly. It is also necessary that you confirm whether the van has a GPS system since you will need it in the course of your camping. One should also confirm availability of spare tires, first aid kit among other things. This will save you the additional cost you may have to incur should you find the van has something wrong or something is missing in the car after you hired it.

Confirm the costs which you may have to bear

Apart from the hiring charges, be careful to find out what other charges may be incurred by you when you take the van. Some charges that you will have to incur include the cost of gas and car wash for the days you will have it. Confirm whether there are other additional costs besides the ones that you have been informed. This will also help you work within your budget since you will be aware of what you will be expected to pay.

Ask for a contract

This is a necessary document that you will need to refer to should other things be introduced that you were not aware of. Everything you agree on should be included in the contract. The costs, what you should not do with the vehicle among others. This will save you from paying for something that was not in the contract hence protect you from dishonest dealers.

Choosing the best limo for wine tours

A wine tour provides you with the opportunity to experience something you don’t do on a regular basis. You relax and sit back and enjoy the ride. Many of us must have gone on a wine tour earlier, but if you want to have something new this time, you can take wine tours in a limousine.

Limo hire

One of the amazing things about winery tours is that you get to experience and enjoy everything that is offered by a winery.

The enjoyment includes getting to know the history of the land, wonderful scenery, excellent food and few glasses of wine. Some of the benefits of choosing the best limo for wine tours include:

Convenience

When you drive your car on a wine tour, you have to concentrate on driving most of the time. When you hire a limousine you have the convenience as you, don’t have to worry about anything. You are not lost anytime, as the limousine service providers are well aware of all the area. They may even take you to places that you may not be able to see on your own. They plan the day for you and take you to place so that you enjoy the maximum.

You don’t have to worry about where you have to park your car or how you will reach a particular place.Wine tours on a limo are planned out as per comfort and maximum enjoyment.

Comfort

Winery tours in a luxurious limousine are much more comfortable than driving down in your car. This is particularly essential in case the winery is several hundred miles away and takes more than an hour of drive to reach. All you need to worry about to make arrangement to enjoy the tour in a best possible way. You don’t get tired as you don’t have to steer around traffic congestion.

One of the reasons to go on a wine tour is to enjoy some wine. This means you are not supposed to drive on your own and compromise the safety of others and yours too. In case you have hired a limousine, you can enjoy the wine as much as you can.

Flexibility

When you hire a limo, you can enjoy every minute with your group of friends or your very own special romantic trip. Limo companies have different types of limousines to choose from; this means you can enjoy the ride in a different car.

Winery tours are very good in case you want to spend some time away from the hustle-bustle of your daily life. It lets you relax and enjoy your time and make sure that when you come back on work, you are fully rejuvenated. Spend some time and feel the difference.

How To Buy The Best Travel Suitcase

Whether you are traveling on business or holiday, a choice of the best luggage case is crucial to protect your stuff. With many options on the market today, it can be difficult to select a suitable one. However, one can get a convenient option with the right tips. The following tips will help you achieve the best.

Tips for buying the best travel suitcase

Check the size

Convenient travel is about striking a balance in the size of the luggage case you carry. One that conveniently takes all you need for the stay is a better option. Thus, one needs to consider the size with caution. A too big choice will not only inconvenience in the carriage but can disorganize the arranged belonging due to unutilized space. On the other hand, a too small option may force you to leave out some items or carry second luggage.

The exteriors

Today, the manufacturers have gone a step further to provide extra protection to your staff by creating the hard shell suitcases. However, either hard or soft option have both pros and cons. The soft bags can fit well into compartment if you are on a freight most of the time while the hard ones will offer protection if you are anticipating to use have it stacked in common cabins during travel. This is a debatable issue to be left to preference, though.

The interiors

Most business people will travel more with documents, electrical devices and computers than clothes. Therefore, a suitcase with organizer compartments will keep them in position. However, people on holiday will need more clothes thus one with a large inner space will work better. Therefore, buyers must inquire about the interiors to avoid disappointments on the packing day.

The wheels and handles

It would be logical to argue that a big suitcase will need larger and stronger wheels and handles. However, all bags need to have them strong enough to withstand all the pressure and strain. Ones with a smooth roll will offer an easy maneuverability along the busy airport terminals or hotel corridors.

The price tags

Finally, the price tags need to be pocket-friendly not to eat up the budget for other things. With numerous web shops these days, it is easy to make a price comparison from various vendors. Avoid the cheap ones as they will tend to disappoint. Go for value for money rather.

Top 5 Attractions In El Nido

Have you ever been to El Nido, Palawan? If not, you do not know what you are missing. This is where the earth meets the heaven. The fun, the sights, the weather and food: all should be enough for you set sail today and be on your way to this earthly paradise. However, before you do that, I want to give more reasons to come here expecting nothing less of perfection and the best lifetime holiday. Top attractions in El Nido are all that you need to be convinced to come here and stay quite longer than you had planned. If you doubt, just continue reading.

Top Attractions in El Nido

Calaan Bay

If you have never seen the sun rising or setting very near to you, here is the place to be and witness this carefully. That is not all; if snorkeling is your game then here, you can never have enough of it. You can go under water and observe sea life with your naked eyes.

Mike’s Point for surfing

If you have always wanted to surf but never got the place, Mike’s point is your must-visit place. All that you need for thrilling surfing is at your disposal. You came with little or no mastery in surfing, but you will leave a master.

Nightlife at its best

With countless top-end restaurants to wine and dine, your night and day will be like a roll coaster. Of these, the Sky Inn is top of the charts for both food and entertainment. Acoustic bars will be a good choice to see the night crawl into dawn. Sample El Nido Art Café and Sea Slugs and you always want to have one more night here.

The Unique Cuisine

El Nido is famous for its food and drink. It is nothing you have tasted wherever you have been. From Nido Soup to seafood, your appetite will always be at its best. There is a lot to eat and drink, and it will be all nothing you have had before. If you still want to stick with what you know, there is pizza and the other lot of food from every corner of the world.

Nagkalit-Kalit Falls

Pure nature is what makes this place a must-visit for you. Here the falls have a hot spring, and you can have hot shower coupled with a cold-water breeze. Here you can observe nature up close.
You will never go to El Nido and not come back. There is a lot to see and do that you can never exhaust in one visit.

Benefits Of Camping To A Person’s Well-Being

The world today is fast moving, men and women are working day in day out to make their financial ends meet. Some people work so hard for money until they forget to take care of themselves. For you to be productive at work, your body must be healthy. Do not overwork your body. At times take a break from your day to day activities. Do something fun and different. Among of the things to help you relax can be camping.

Camping and health

Clean and fresh air

Camping is done outside, near nature. This means one will be breathing fresh air directly from the trees. Studies have shown that an extra intake of oxygen release a chemical that makes the body relax. It stabilizes one’s emotions. Another benefit of outdoor activities is that they enhance the immune system, digestion and improve one’s blood pressure. A lot of people work in an area with polluted air. Hence, camping will be a good way to enjoy and breathe in fresh air after a long week or month of work.

Exercise for the body and brain

This is the most significant part of camping. While out there, people engage in different exercises and activities that are good for the body. Some include hiking and biking. The body will be continuously moving. This helps improving blood circulation and to strengthen the body muscles. Moreover, the brain to is exercised. Puzzles and problem-solving exercises are good for the brain. When you are faced with a difficult situation and an immediate solution needed, the brain is being trained to think and work under pressure.

Reduce stress

Job stress like deadlines, traffic, office work and other duties can wear the individual physically and emotionally. Camping activities are stress-free hence makes you relax and do your thing without pressure. Spending time under the sun is known to reduce the level melatonin in the body. This is a chemical associated with depression, stress, and tiredness.

Bonding, socialization and quality time

Camps are good sites to meet and make new friends. Meeting new people is healthy because you get to learn a new culture, taste new diets and can even learn two or three words from a different language. This is relaxing, right? For families, camping is a good way to spend quality time with loved one and create a stronger bond. Probably you never have time to see and listen to your kids because of busy work schedule. This is the perfect way to reunite and bond as a family.

The Best Tips To Enjoy Your Travel

All work with no play makes Jack a dull boy. This saying is true; you must get time to relax and refreshen up from your daily work. One of the ways to do this is by traveling. Go places where you enjoy nature. Travel to silent places, have fun and adventure.

Tips you may consider:

Where are you traveling to?

This a question you must get perfect answers before packing your item for the trip. Choose a place where all your needs will be well taken care of. If you are aiming at having some good time to relax, a hotel with body massage and spa is a good option. If you want to have fun and adventure, entertainment area will be good for you. For nature lovers, on the other hand, it will better if you visited natural sites like waterfalls, rivers, caves and beaches.

Plan and prepare things you want

Make a list of all items you are supposed to carry. This will help you not forget. Carry toiletries, personal effects, extra clothes, digital camera, your smart phone and important of all, carry money.it is wise to spare money for your trip. Carry extra amount, so that after spending you will be left with empty pockets. If you are traveling to another country, the budget gets bigger.

A map

This is something you must never forget to carry. It gets easier nowadays because you can use your smart phone in case you forget to carry your map. Use the maps to locate your place of destination and the routes to get you there. If for instance, you planning to go mountain climbing, a map will guide you on the routes to use.

Transportation options

You need to know what means of transport will best get you to your place of destination. Will you go by bus, train, car or flight? Research and get the best means regarding speed and cost. Do not use a means that will get you bored before reaching your place of choice.

Take picture and videos

This is one thing you must never forget to do. It is the fun of traveling. Carry digital cameras with high resolutions and pixels for the best photos. If you do not have a camera, a smart phone will do. After your trip share the memories on social media. Your friends and family will be happy to see the places you visited.