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Beyond the gorgeous coast and the quintessentially Tuscan towns of Pisa and Florence, there is plenty to do in the much-loved region of Tuscany. Travellers can find so much more in store to explore, travelling beyond the gateways with ease to quaint and quiet corners to the lesser-known hidden gems of Lucca and Barga.

LUCCA

Time travel to the Renaissance era

Near Pisa and Florence, lies Lucca, the city of a hundred churches. Visitors can enjoy walking along the historic city walls and explore the gorgeous gardens and squares. Travellers will fall in love with the city for its sights but also for its flavours when visiting local markets and wineries. To experience the city just like the old times, Grand Universe Lucca offers a tour by horse and carriage with an aperitif (from £41 per person) or ‘bike & bites’ for a walk on the walls that surround the city with a typical (and delicious) local snack.

Book the ‘Summer In Lucca’ package directly through Marriott (www.marriott.co.uk) for a four-night stay for two at the Grand Universe Lucca. The package includes accommodation in a king-sized room on a bed and breakfast basis and a wine tasting experience for two from £1,542. Based on June travel dates.

Live concerts in the square: Lucca Summer Festival in Piazza Napoleone

The most anticipated musical event in the Italian summer is back this year in Lucca, a Tuscan city with a long musical tradition. The month-long Lucca Summer Festival from (25 June – 24 July 2022) features legendary artists from all over the world, performing across the city in historical venues and public squares. The 2022 line-up already features Justin Bieber, John Legend, Liam Gallagher, Zucchero. The Sommita’ Martin Orsyn Champagne rooftop at the Grand Universe Lucca is the best-hidden spot to soak up the atmosphere with a glass of champagne.

Expedia (www.expedia.co.uk) offers a 3-night stay at Grand Universe Lucca during the Lucca Music Festival in a king-sized room with city views priced from £960 for two people over the weekend that John Legend is performing. Based on travel from 8 – 11 June, for two adults sharing.

BARGA

Discover Barga, Italy’s most Scottish town!

Head to Barga for an escape that feels like a home away from home. Largely still under the radar, Barga proudly prides itself on being ‘the most Scottish place in Italy’. Whilst the destination looks like a classic medieval Italian town with its Duomo, red-roofed houses and cobbled streets, surprisingly it has very strong Scottish connections going back to the turn of the last century. Guests can discover the beautiful historic centre, the vineyards and olive groves and join traditional folklore events.

Marriott (www.marriott.co.uk) offers ‘the Summer In Tuscany’ for weekend stays Friday to Sunday for two people at the Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa. A two-night stay including daily breakfast, dinner and one bottle of wine per day for two is priced from £555 based on June departures. Excluding flights.

Explore Il Ciocco, a biker’s heaven

Nature lovers will fall in love will Il Ciocco, an off-the-beaten-track destination in the heart of the Serchio Valley. This is a fascinating part of Tuscany, nestled in the Apennine Mountains straddling the regions of Tuscany and Emilia. Locals consider Il Ciocco a mountain bike haven for its evolving network of bike routes with kilometres of itineraries in the woods for every riding style. Not a bike fan? Trekking is also high on the agenda here and visitors can look for wild herbs and seek out breathtaking views.

Thomas Cook (www.thomascook.com) offers a three-night stay at Reinassance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa in a double room priced from £956.75 for two adults sharing, including flights from London Stansted with Ryanair. Based on a 1 July departure.

Detox on a spa resort with an Italian touch

Travellers looking to break free from the stress of daily life should look no further than the Tuscan countryside. Surrounded by 1,700 acres of gorgeously landscaped grounds is the Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa with luxury rooms and suites with spectacular valley views. Guests can refresh in the sparkling waters of two pools, or rejuvenate at the resort spa. Some of the spa’s highlight treatments involve local products such as the wine ritual with Tuscan grapes and the cabernet scrub with a grape marmalade.

Expedia (www.expedia.co.uk) offers a three-night stay at the Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa in a king-sized room priced from £582 for two people over the weekend. Based on travel from 10 – 13 June for two adults sharing.

The hardest part when preparing for a trip is packing your suitcase. You want to make sure you have everything you need without overpacking. It’s stressful lugging around a heavy suitcase.

5 Tips on Packing a Suitcase For Your Next Vacation (Image Credit Pexels)

You also don’t want to under-pack and find yourself without essential items. What do you pack? How do you fit everything in? Here are five tips on packing a suitcase for your next vacation:

Choose Simple But Multipurpose Clothing

Choose clothing that is both simple and versatile. Go for items that can easily mix and match to create different outfits. Opt for clothing in neutral colors that can be dressed up or down.

T-shirts make an excellent choice because they can be worn on their own or layered under a sweater or jacket. They go well with any type of bottom, from jeans to skirts. Think of customizing the t-shirts with your preferred prints to have a unique collection. However, talk to an expert first to know the best t-shirt for sublimation to avoid ruining your clothes.

Also, bring a scarf or sarong along. It’s an ideal blanket, towel, headscarf, or piece of clothing. It takes up very little space and is very versatile.

Roll, Don’t Fold

One of the best ways to save space in your suitcase is to roll your clothes instead of folding them. This also prevents wrinkles and makes it easier to locate the items. To roll clothes, lay the item flat on a surface and tightly roll it up from the bottom. Start with the heavier items and end with the lighter ones on top.

Additionally, use packing cubes to keep your belongings organized and make it easier to find what you need. They come in different sizes and can be used for everything, from shirts to underwear.

Also, note that you don’t need to bring every pair of shoes you own on vacation. Choose shoes that go with multiple outfits and are comfortable for walking. A pair of sandals, sneakers and dress shoes should be enough. If you’re traveling in the winter, pack a pair of boots.

Invest in a Good Carry-On Bag

A good carry-on bag makes all the difference when packing for a trip. It should be the right size to fit in the plane’s overhead compartment and have enough space to hold all your essentials. It should also have a comfortable strap. Look for a bag with compartments and pockets to keep you organized.

Carefully Plan Your Itinerary

Knowing what you’ll be doing each day will help you pack the appropriate clothing and gear. Make a list of the activities you’ll be doing and what you’ll need for each one. You’ll avoid overpacking and make sure you have everything you need. For instance, if you’re hiking, bring more comfortable clothes such as t-shirts and hiking shoes.

If you’re sightseeing, pack lighter items that are easy to walk in. Pack swimsuits, sunscreen and hats when planning a beach vacation. However, it’s okay to have one or two statement pieces for special occasions such as dinner or a show.

Pack Essential Toiletries

Toiletries can take up a lot of space in your suitcase, so only pack the essentials. This includes shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste, and a toothbrush. Many of these items are provided if you’re staying at a hotel.

When staying with friends or family, ask if they have any extra toiletries you can use. You should also pack any medications you take regularly. Alternatively, buy the essentials when you arrive at your destination to save space.

Keep Track of What You Pack

Don’t pack your suitcase in a day, but spread the exercise over a few weeks. This way, you can keep track of what you have packed. Packing a little bit each day will also prevent overpacking.

However, no matter how carefully you plan, you’ll probably buy some souvenirs on the trip. To ensure you have enough room in your suitcase, leave some space when you pack. You’ll end up with a more manageable bag and won’t worry about exceeding the weight limit.

So often, especially these days, time off doesn’t mean you’re completely free from the computer. Work has never been associated with fun, even if it’s remote. You have to grit through every second, right? Wrong. You can spend this day somewhere luxurious- even the beach.

Maybe your workday begins and ends at home. Maybe you’re preparing a presentation you’re going to have to present later. No matter what it is, you’re going to do your best work somewhere you enjoy.

Today, we’re going to show you how to create an office out of a beautiful getaway.

1. Portable Charging

If you don’t have a source of power, you’ll be limited to the amount of battery your computer has. This creates a mindset of limited time, which will hinder the creative juices you came here to unleash.

Take a power source with you. The most reliable types are portable power stations. This device powers itself up, and others by extension. This way, you can stay out as long as you want. Just make sure there’s a place to have it comfortably and don’t forget your charging cable.

2. Blankets and Comfort

If you’re going to be somewhere for a long time, you need to make it somewhere you want to stay.

For the best results, take a personal lounge chair with you. Choose one with pockets that will hold your food and drinks. That way you won’t have to try to balance them with your workspace, causing unnecessary stress.

Bring any cushions, pillows, or blankets you want to cover or prop yourself up with. Make this your perfect relaxation place to do your best work. Take the comfort of your home outside.

3. Food and Beverages

You won’t be able to stay out there if all you can think about is being hungry. Besides, there’s nothing better than having lunch right beside the ocean.

Bring whatever you wish, but we recommend eating finger foods for convenience’s sake. This way you won’t have to worry about spilling something on yourself and/or your workspace. This will make it so you don’t have to interrupt your train of thought to find something to eat.

Have a refrigerating device so you can enjoy your meal at your leisure. It’ll also keep your beverage cold and fresh. Then your workday will feel like a vacation.

4. Skin Care Precautions

The sun in your eyes will hinder you. You also don’t want to risk sunburn. Protect yourself and maximize your experience with some preparations. Bring or rent an umbrella, or find a place of shade.

It’s important for you to take care of your skin. While shade is necessary, you don’t want to be completely reliant on it. Have a significant amount of sunscreen. Listen to your body. If you start to feel uncomfortable, it’s time to go.

5. Tuning Out the Noise

As great as a beach getaway is, the sounds of other attendants can also be distracting. Ideally, you’ll be able to create some distance between yourself and the crowd, but that’s not always possible.

Bring headphones with you. Then you can listen to music while you work. Put together a playlist to create an atmosphere.It’s recommended you use instrumental music, so you won’t be distracted by the words. Don’t pick music you’re emotionally invested in, as it will veer your attention away from your work.

Turning Work Into Fun in the Sun

Just because you have things to do, doesn’t mean beautiful memories can’t be created.

Work can be done one of two ways. You can do it resentfully or incorporate some enjoyment into it. The latter will result in a much better product, and those you’re trying to impress will notice that too.

Here at House of Coco we like to keep our ear to the ground and hear about new hotel openings all over the world so that we never run out of places to add to our bucketlist.

One place that just made its way to the top of that list it Courtyard by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio of 30 hotel brands, who recently announced the opening of Courtyard by Marriott Exeter Sandy Park, the first Courtyard by Marriott hotel in the South West of England. Owned by Exeter Rugby group Plc, the 250-bedroom hotel is set in a distinctive location in the vibrant city of Exeter, offering convenient access to Sandy Park Conference & Banqueting Centre, home to the rugby club Exeter Chiefs.

Exeter Rugby Club Chairman and Chief Executive, Tony Rowe OBE, said:

“I am delighted to see the opening of the new Courtyard by Marriott Exeter Sandy Park. The new hotel will further enhance the outstanding facilities we are able to offer to all our customers here at Sandy Park as well as the City of Exeter and surrounding area,”

Renowned for its beautiful surroundings and easy access to the coast, Exeter is an attractive destination that offers a rich cultural and art scene.

“We are thrilled to open this new Courtyard by Marriott in the UK, joining an existing portfolio of 12 hotels. Exeter is an amazing destination and whether you are in the city for business, pleasure or to watch a match, the hotel will provide all you need for a worthwhile visit.” said Kirsty Holburd, General Manager

Led by London-based interior design company Twenty2 Degrees, the design of the hotel offers a contemporary look and feel that speaks to the Courtyard by Marriott’s ambitious and enterprising guests. The modern furnishings, complete with timber walls and blue hues create a comfortable and welcoming ambiance. The artwork, figurines and carpet design throughout the hotel are an ode to the hotel’s famous neighbour, the Exeter Chiefs rugby club.

The room design offers hybrid zones for working, sleeping, relaxing and getting ready. Indirect lighting and a neutral colour palette provide an elevated and modern look and feel.

The hotel offers three dining outlets, The View, The Kitchen & Bar and the Match Day Bar all managed by the Executive Chef, Richard Hunt.

The View Restaurant, opening this May, is located on the top floor of the hotel. The restaurant offers unbeatable, panoramic views of Devon’s countryside and coastline. Local produce will take pride of place on the menu with seafood, meat and vegetables all being sourced from local suppliers. Situated in the centre of the action, in front of the kitchen, is the Chef’s table. Available for parties of up to six people, the social dining experience allows guests to engage with the Chef at work while enjoying a delicious feasting menu. The central bar offers a generous drink list complete with local beers, wines, ciders, and spirits.

The Kitchen & Bar can be found on the ground floor of the hotel. The all-day dining venue offers international comfort dishes cooked with the very best of local produce. The signature burger is made with beef from Devon and the crab linguine is sourced from Brixham, just a few miles away from the hotel. The bar menu caters to all tastes and features local craft beers, as well as a wide selection of local spirits.

The Match Day Bar opens its doors on match days, perfect for gathering for a pre or post-match beverage.

The hotel also offers three flexible meeting and events spaces, a 24-hour 90 square metre gym and a secure car park with electric-car charging ports.

Starting rates from £89. For further information please visit: www.marriott.com

As the skies are opening up again and travellers are enjoying the incredible sights that our planet has to offer, many tourists are thinking of planning their next dream holidays for this year. With tourists valuing many different things when they go travelling as times are changing, this article has compiled a list of the top trends that tourists now look for when picking a holiday destination to help with your holiday inspiration.

The rising popularity of family trips

As seeing family and friends is more important than ever, many families are choosing to spend more time with each other and make up for lost time, resulting in a huge increase in the popularity of family vacations. When holidaying with families that include young children or elderly relatives, tourists tend to choose locations that are known to be safe, easy to access and with a warm temperature. Most families may want a break from bustling cities and may choose to travel to more relaxing and natural destinations.

All-inclusive luxury & long-haul trips

With so much paperwork and organisation and many flights being more expensive than they used to be as airlines try to recoup costs, many tourists are looking for something that is truly worth their money when picking a holiday destination. That’s why more and more people are choosing to invest in all-inclusive and luxurious holidays. All-inclusive luxury may include fancy hotels, unlimited food and drinks and opulent spa experiences so guests can make the most out of their holiday experience.

Benefits of sustainable travel

There is no doubt that sustainable travel is increasingly becoming one of the most popular options for tourists. With the rise of global temperatures and a general concern over global warming, more and more people are choosing to opt for more eco-friendly options. Did you know that tourism is responsible for 8 percent of carbon emissions? Eco-tourism aims to minimise the effect that travelling has on the environment, while also encouraging tourists to engage in social and economical benefits for local communities.

There are several ways that tourists are choosing to travel in an eco-friendly manner, such as by taking the train, or using bikes rather than vehicles when transporting abroad. So many tourists are now travelling sustainably in 2022 which is having a number of benefits on the environment and also becoming a hugely popular travel option for many as a result.

New experiences

Tourists are now, more than ever, looking for new experiences. After months and years of similarity, travellers are looking for something truly opposite to what they’re used to, to experience things they’ve never experienced before. Many tourists are now choosing to book safaris, wilder destinations and truly rugged landscapes like the volcanoes of Iceland for example, to really widen their experiences across the globe.

An increase in solo travelling

Solo travel over the last few years have boomed, with more and more individuals choosing to travel solo. Many people are now choosing to explore the world independently for a feeling of freedom on their holidays. While some are looking for bustling city life and the opportunity to meet new people, many are looking for a chance to escape everyone with trips to the farthest reaches of the world.

Are you planning a trip to India? The accommodation that you choose will make all the difference when it comes to your trip experience, so it’s a good idea to be clear when it comes to what you are looking for. Of course, different travelers have different requirements and preferences when it comes to where they stay, so what might be important to one person might not be such a big deal for you or vice versa. Before you find the perfect hotel accommodation in India for your trip, here are some of the main factors to consider.

Accommodation Type

First of all, think about the type of accommodation that you are going to stay in. Are you considering a standard hotel room, or do you want something more luxurious? Depending on where you stay in India, you can find whole villas and larger accommodation types that are suitable for family trips or large groups of friends. Or maybe you are on a tight budget and looking for a cheap hostel accommodation where you can rest, store your things, and make new friends.

Location

The location of your accommodation can make all the difference to your experience since this will impact on things like travel times, which attractions and sites you can visit easily, and what’s available for you to do in the nearby area. Of course, the purpose of your trip is going to play a large part in determining the location of where you stay. You may be more interested in something off the beaten path or a little out of the way if you want your visit to focus mainly on experiencing life like the locals. On the other hand, if you want a more touristic visit and plan on seeing as much as you can, then opt for somewhere with a more central location that is close to good travel links.

Facilities

Before choosing the right accommodation for you, take a look at the facilities on offer and come up with a list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves. For example, you might want to stay connected to people back home along with being able to play at a casino online for real money while at your accommodation, without paying data roaming fees, so opt for somewhere that has a good Wi-Fi connection.

Reputation

Once you have shortlisted a few accommodation options that suit your needs, it’s a good idea to spend some more time checking out reviews and learning more about the reputation of the place before you decide to stay. Do some research on anything that might be important to you like the safety of the area, the food served at the restaurant if applicable, and the cleanliness of the hotel. Most booking sites offer a reviews section where you can find out more about what other guests have had to say and use this information to make your decision.

A trip to India can be an exciting experience of a lifetime. Before choosing your accommodation, keep these factors in mind to help you make the best choice for your trip.

Mexico is a country with a rich history, remarkable cuisine, a welcoming culture, and unique landscapes that stir the soul. If you’re going to be spending some time there this summer, you’re incredibly lucky. This being said, given how big Mexico is and how much wonder there is to explore, it’s a good idea to do a little research beforehand so that you don’t miss out on anything. The following will explore a few things you can do to help make sure you enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Mexico City

As the capital of Mexico, Mexico City has served as the cultural staple in the country. Packed with stunning murals, museums, theatres, and dance performances, Mexico City is an art lover’s dream. The city is alive and buzzing with pre-Hispanic and pre-colonial architecture, cantinas, and stunning plazas. High-end shopping, the Frida Kahlo museum, the Palacio de Bellas Artes, Chapultepec Castle, floating gardens, the Basilica de Santa Maria de Guadalupe, a thriving nightlife—Mexico City is a place you’re going to want a few days to explore at the minimum.

It’s rare to find a city that is simultaneously so modern and so connected to the past. The earliest remains found in the area of Mexico City are from the lower Cenolithic period (9500-7000 BC but possibly as old as 12,7000 years). The location of the city was the settling place of migrating Teochichimecas during the 8th and 13th centuries. These folk eventually gave rise to the Toltec and Mexica cultures (Mexica are commonly referred to as Aztecs). The Spanish colonized the city, and it also hosted the famous Battle of Mexico City in the American-Mexican War in 1847. As you can imagine, this long history has resulted in a unique and vibrant city filled with all manner of historical relics and sights.

Tulum

Tulum is the location of a pre-colonial Mayan walled city on the east coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. Tons of bohemian vibes combine with ruins embedded in cliffs to create a truly unique environment. The city was one of the final to be inhabited by the Maya and was thriving in particular during the 13th and 15th centuries. While you’re there, be sure to check out the Temple of the Frescoes, the Temple of the Descending God, and El Castillo, and be sure to schedule lots of time for casually meandering along turquoise beaches. To really amp up the rejuvenating aspect of this stop, seek out an all-inclusive accommodation in Tulum and soak up the sun. This is an excellent location to plan for a laid-back series of days to relax, connect with the magical nature of Mexico, and enjoy crystal-clear waters.

Cabo Pulmo

Famous for the scuba diving adventures that people embark on, Cabo Pulmo is a massive reef filled with black coral bushes, horse-eye jackfish schools, and triggerfish located on the east coast of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula. The national park is a 17,571-acre Marine Protected Area and is home to a coral reef that is estimated to be 20,000 years old. It’s a world heritage site and the sort of place that you’ll want to spend several relaxing days in. Be sure to study your sunscreen options carefully before leaving, as most common sunscreens are severely damaging to coral reefs (they wash off people and stay in the water, wreaking havoc). Many places are in the process of banning traditional sunscreens because of their toxic ingredients (which, by the way, are no good for your body either). It’s important not to trust labels that claim they’re “reef safe,” as this isn’t terminology that requires meeting any specific standards. You need to read the ingredients list and research the ingredients.

Guadalajara

The second biggest city in Mexico is also worth a stop. Filled with grande churches, marketplaces that feel like labyrinths, craft shopping, charming public spaces as well as epic amenities, Guadalajara should not be missed. Mariachi music and the wide-brimmed sombreros you’ve seen on television have their roots in the city, and the food is top-notch.

Espíritu Santo

This island filled with pink sandstone and heavenly coves has a fairytale aesthetic. The area is filled with fun activities like kayaking and snorkeling, and the sight of the sun setting across a pink land makes for some of the best photos you’ve ever taken.

The above list should have opened your eyes to just a few of the remarkable sights you need to witness when traveling in Mexico. Plan lots of time between activities and stops because the richness of this country will have you wanting to slow down and really take it all in.

Are you planning your first diving trip? If so, there are a few things you need to do in order to prepare for it. Diving can be a lot of fun, but it’s important to make sure you’re properly prepared for it. In this blog post, we will discuss seven preparation tips that will help make your first diving trip a success!

Get Proper Equipment

First and foremost, you need to make sure you have the proper equipment. This includes a wetsuit, fins, mask, snorkel, and weight belt. You can either rent or purchase these items. If you’re planning on doing a lot of diving, it may be worth it to invest in your own equipment. For instance, if you are in Mexico, you can find many dive shops in Cozumel that offer equipment rentals. Also, you need to make sure you have your dive certification. Most diving trips will require you to show proof of certification. The equipment you need includes a wetsuit, fins, mask, snorkel, and weight belt. A wet suit is used to keep you warm underwater. Fins help you move through the water more easily. The mask protects your eyes from the saltwater and allows you to see clearly underwater. The snorkel helps you breathe while swimming on the surface. The weight belt keeps you buoyant underwater.

Check Your Gear

Once you have your equipment, it’s important to check it to make sure everything is in good working condition. This includes checking the straps on your fins and mask, as well as making sure your wetsuit doesn’t have any holes or tears. You should also test your snorkel and regulator to make sure they are working properly. You can do this by blowing into the regulator and making sure air is coming out.

Get Travel Insurance

When you’re planning a diving trip, it’s important to get travel insurance. This will protect you in case of any accidents or emergencies that may occur while you’re on your trip. Diving can be a dangerous sport, so it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Also, many travel insurance policies will cover lost or stolen gear. If you purchase your own equipment, this can be a lifesaver.

Pack Your Bags

Now that you have your equipment and travel insurance, it’s time to start packing your bags. Make sure you pack everything you need, including your dive gear, swimsuit, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit. It’s also a good idea to bring along some snacks and drinks, as well as a map of the area you’ll be diving in. You may also need to bring cash, as some dive shops only accept cash payments. This is vital in order to avoid getting dehydrated or hungry while diving.

Check the Weather

Before you head out on your trip, it’s important to check the weather forecast. This will help you plan your dive schedule and know what to expect. If there are any storms or bad weather conditions expected, it’s best to reschedule your trip for another time. Bad weather can cause waves and currents, which can be dangerous for divers. Also, be sure to check the temperature of the water. You don’t want to dive in cold water without a wetsuit. You will need to wear a wetsuit if the water temperature is below 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Check the Tides

Another thing you need to check is the tides. Tides are important for divers because they can affect visibility and currents. If you’re not familiar with tides, it’s best to check with a local dive shop or instructor. They are defined as the rise and fall of sea levels due to the gravitational pull of the moon and sun. It is vital to check them as they can affect your safety while diving. Additionally, be aware of any currents. Strong currents can sweep you away and make it difficult to swim back to shore.

Dive Safely

Once you arrive at your destination, it’s time to start diving! Remember to always dive with a buddy and follow the safety guidelines. Don’t push yourself too hard and take breaks when you need them. Also, be sure to listen to your dive instructor and follow their instructions. They know the area and conditions better than you do. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy your trip!

Diving is a great way to explore the underwater world. These are just a few tips to help you prepare for your trip, but remember to always use common sense and listen to the advice of your dive instructor. By following these simple tips, you can make sure your first diving trip is a success! Have a great time and be safe!

Happy diving!

We all had that dream. Take a vacation from the 9 to 5 grind and go somewhere sunny. But aside from having the time to do so, you also need money to fund your dream vacation. Alas, it is not as simple as dropping everything and leaving it all behind.

Traveling, while certainly doable, can easily rack up the costs. Being able to save for travel is a sort of privilege these days.

But drinking piña coladas by the beach shouldn’t be some sort of pipe dream. Hey, Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither is your travel fund. With these helpful tips and tricks, you can start saving up and be one step closer to your travel goals.

Plan it all out

Before anything else, you must create a strong foundation first. Be realistic. Where do you want to go? How does your trip compare to the reality of your financial situation?

Remember, if your vacation costs you your peace of mind, then it is probably way too expensive. Make sure that you won’t completely empty your bank account for just a few weeks of relaxation.

Know the overall cost of your trip. Next, compile a list that goes over your income and expenses to see how feasible this vacation will be.

Once done, set short-term and long-term saving goals. Put an achievable number to your goals. Doing so helps you keep motivated and excited to save more.

Get a Side Hustle

We know what you are thinking, “Get a side hustle? My full-time job is already stressful enough!” Of course, a full-time job already takes up so much of your day. How are you going to fit yet another job into your already full schedule?

Well, having a supplementary monthly income helps you get to your goals faster. But side hustles don’t have to be stressful or time-consuming.

One of the rewarding side hustles that lets you have full control of your time and effort is GrabPoints.

GrabPoints is the perfect side hustle for busy people who want to make a quick buck. Don’t worry, no tech skills or experience is needed. You just have to show up.

This get-paid-to (GPT) site works as a bridge between companies and brands looking for direct engagements and people like you. When you complete simple online tasks such as watching videos, taking surveys, and playing mobile apps, you get awarded points.

You can then use these points to claim a variety of digital prizes from GrabPoints’ Reward Store. You can claim PayPal cash of up to $100 and other equally amazing rewards.

Simplify it

Stay in more, and stay out less. You might be surprised at how much we actually spend for “wants” over needs.

Yes, that overpriced iced coffee that helps you function as a normal human being can be costly. Eating out every night can severely drain your finances. Subscriptions to apps and gym memberships you don’t use often put more holes in your wallet than you are aware of.

Now, we aren’t saying you shouldn’t enjoy yourself anymore. The important thing here is creating a balance between saving and spending. Treat yourself to iced coffees, dinners, and other wants. But balance these out by cultivating wallet-friendly habits, too.

For example, there can be days when you can brew your own coffee. It is much cheaper to make your own coffee. Learn how to prepare and cook your food from time to time. Sell stuff that you don’t use anymore.

But we also understand how living a frugal life can be quite a feat, especially when you are too busy making ends meet.

GrabPoints has your back. You can get free gift cards from Starbucks, Walmart, Amazon, and other well-known retailers. You may even get free subscriptions from Spotify, Apple Music, and Netflix.

Living a simple life doesn’t mean you have to cut off everything that brings you joy. Other times, you can get your iced coffee for free.

Open a Separate Bank Account

After building a solid foundation, setting goals, and cutting back on unnecessary expenses, you must solidify your plans by opening a separate bank account.

Separating your travel money from the main bulk of your money means you will be less likely to spend it.

Automatically deposit a portion of your monthly income to this bank account. This practice also teaches you the discipline of not overspending.

Plus, you can actually see how much your travel fund grows each month. You’ll be more motivated to continue until you are finally relaxing somewhere in the tropics.

The Bottomline

There are a myriad of ways to save up and finally go on your dream vacation. You can start with something small such as researching the overall cost of your trip or something more elaborate like doing simple online tasks in exchange for free gift cards. The important thing here is to start. Once you do, everything follows.

What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you decide to travel abroad – to plan your trip. Right? Well! Being prepared for your journey to the faraway lands is the key to a happy and safe vacation. You are probably on Cloud No. 9 and are super excited about your upcoming overseas trip. However, to make sure that you have a great time, you may need to invest some time and effort to plan your vacation.

Here we have designed a checklist to ensure that you have a fantastic trip with everything – finances to clothing, accessories to medications, in place.

  1. An updated passport can save your day.

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least 6-months after you get back from your trip. According to the State Department, all travelers need to renew their passport within 9-months before expiration. So, without further delay, take a look at your passport’s date of expiry. And, if needed, renew it. If your tour itinerary involves driving, do remember to check if you need an international driver’s license or your domestic license will do the job. Make sure to carry a soft copy of your passport and visa and keep them handy.

  1. Vaccinations and prescriptions are crucial.

The impact of COVID-19 is still evolving, with a new variant showing up every other day. And, needless to mention, its trail is spread all over the world. So, before you jet off for your upcoming holiday, make sure to go leaf through the website of the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) for the latest travel advisories and information related to vaccinations and COVID-19 testing pertaining to international travel. When it comes to immunizing, vaccination against the coronavirus is not the only requirement. You may need to administer vaccines for other conditions, including yellow fever, cholera, and Zika virus. So, before you fly, check with the CDC for the appropriate and latest information. To ensure the best possible protection, make sure to get the relevant shot before six weeks of departure. Always carry medications more than enough to cover your entire trip.

  1. Getting your trip registered is a good idea.

Are you traveling to a remote location? If so, make it a point to register for a trip with the U.S. Department of State. Also, make sure to inform them about your entire travel plan. Unfortunately, if you are stuck in an emergency, the U.S. The Department of State will know about your whereabouts so that they can contact you.

  1. Pack your bags carefully.

Try not to carry valuables with you. Expensive items, such as jewelry, electronics, gadgets, etc., can attract miscreants. However, if you do have to carry expensive things, make sure to bring them in your handbag (cabin handbag). If you cannot bring them everywhere you go, do keep them secured in your hotel safe. Do you wear prescription glasses? If so, do pack some extra pairs. The cost of glasses and frames could be expensive in an overseas country. Always keep all your bags properly locked. It would be great if you purchase locks approved by the Transportation Security Administration.

  1. Do your homework about the destination country.

As far as preparing for a holiday is concerned, doing homework about the destination is the best thing to do beforehand. The more ideas you will have about the country, the easier you can gel up once you reach there. Some tips to help you:

  • If you are visiting a country where the crowd could be possibly conservative, avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, and other similar outfits.
  • Pack your outfits appropriately according to the climatic conditions of the country you are visiting. Otherwise, you might have to shell out to buy them. It may affect your finances in a foreign land. Plus, you might feel uncomfortable due to different weather altogether.
  • It would be good for you if you learn to speak some colloquial phrases, such as good morning, good evening, thank you, etc.
  • If your trip takes you to a location where you are likely to open your shoes pretty frequently, pack some slip-on.
  1. Do you want to carry your pet on your international trip?

If you have a pet (who would love to travel with you), make sure to get in touch with the embassy of your destination country to confirm – if or not you can take your pet to their country. Many countries are likely to have restrictions regarding carrying pets to their countries. Moreover, what if you are in an emergency and need to be evacuated? Most countries do not allow pets unless they are service dogs. Therefore, you need to bear this in mind when planning to carry your pet. Also, the countries that do allow pets need the latter to be properly vaccinated with all pet identification tags in place.

  1. Buy a travel medical insurance plan.

Before you take off to a foreign destination, ask yourself the following questions –

  • What if I contract an infectious disease abroad?
  • What if I become severely ill, requiring hospitalization?
  • What if I slip and fall, breaking my leg?
  • What if I need to be evacuated to a safe place due to an emergency?
  • How will I manage the payment?
  • What if I lose my baggage?
  • Will I have to break my bank?

Dear reader, the answer to all these questions is – Travel Medical Insurance or Visitors Insurance. This one policy will protect you against all covered medical scenarios that you may come across on your international trip.

Finding a good travel medical insurance coverage made easy

If you have been looking for a reliable travel health insurance provider but are confused because of a world of insurance products to choose from – visit a user-friendly insurance broking portal like Visitors Guru. Using this interactive platform, you can compare various insurance plans and get free price quotes. It will make your search easy and you can find a suitable visitors insurance plan to meet your needs in an international destination.