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November 14, 2013
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Comments Off on Travel Insurance Tips for Australians Traveling Overseas

Travel Insurance Tips for Australians Traveling Overseas

Australians love to travel and the spirit of adventure is something to be explored and nurtured. Traveling takes a little careful planning and preparation to ensure that everything runs smooth especially when traveling overseas. To ensure that you are covered completely for everything from your flight being delayed to your bags being snatched you should seriously consider travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you should the unexpected happen and will give you that extra peace of mind you need when exploring the world. Check out these top travel insurance advice for Australians who are going overseas.

Get Medical Cover

As an Australian citizen as soon as you step foot out of Australia you are not covered for medical care. This means that when traveling abroad you should make sure that you are protected by choosing medical insurance as part of your travel insurance plan. If you get into an accident or fall sick somewhere in the world then you could incur major costs to get fixed back up.

Consider your Technology

With the growth of smart technology it has become the norm for people to travel with their laptops, tablets and smart phones. Yet one of the most common crimes throughout the western world is these things being grabbed and snatched, when signing up travel insurance you should make sure that your technology is covered in the event of theft, loss or damage.

Be Safe Wherever you are Going

Many Australian travelers think that they only need to sign up for travel insurance if they are heading into the depths of the jungle or jumping off cliffs in Peru. The truth is it doesn’t matter where you are traveling or what you plan to do when you arrive. You could be heading to the safest spot in the Caribbean and planning to spend endless hours lazing on the sands but you still need travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against cancelled or late flights, lost luggage and all kinds of travel emergencies that can occur any place, any time.

Shop Around

Finally if you really want to catch a good deal when it comes to buying travel insurance for going overseas then make sure you shop around. There are plenty of options when it comes to travel insurance so don’t settle for the first deal you find. A little time and plenty of research will ensure you get the best offers.

November 7, 2013
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Comments Off on Classic vs Quirky Rome: Top 10 sights in the Eternal City

Classic vs Quirky Rome: Top 10 sights in the Eternal City

They say all roads lead to Rome, but it’s safe to say that some are more well-worn than others. In a city with so many superlative sights, there’s nothing wrong with heading to the tried-and-tested classics, but sometimes it’s good to wander down the road less travelled too. Here are our top 10 must-sees in the Eternal City. Classic or quirky: which is better? We’ll let you decide…

CLASSIC ROME

1. 4 million visitors a year can’t be wrong – the Colosseum must be bringing in the crowds for some reason. Whether it’s the awe-inspiring scale, the grizzly history or the fact that this is the symbol of Rome, you’d be a fool to miss it off your Rome itinerary.

2. With its sturdy, soaring columns and vast dome, the Pantheon is one of the greatest structures of all time. The epitome of Classical architecture, this is one sight that really will take your breath away.

3. If you throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain, you’ll be sure to return to the Eternal City, or so the legend goes. It’s not clear, then, whether the amount of people that come to part with their pennies is testament to this gorgeous fountain or the city itself – we’re willing to bet it’s both.

4. It’s tempting to become blasé about sights when you’ve seen endless images of them, but believe us – nothing will prepare you for the moment you first lay eyes on the Sistine Chapel. Intricate beyond belief, this magnificent masterpiece is one of the feats of human achievement.

5. It might not be the most beautiful square in Rome, but you don’t come to Piazza di Spagna for the visuals (although it’s no blight on the landscape by anyone’s imagination). The big draw here is the atmosphere, and with thousands of locals and visitors passing through every day, it’s got that in bucketloads.

QUIRKY ROME

1. Why not head to the Pasta Museum? You’ll discover the history of this Italian staple as well as learning about production methods – then you can legitimately justify your indulgence as a cultural experience.

2. You’ve seen the Colosseum – now why not try being a gladiator yourself? Several schools offer gladiator training, just make sure you don’t put your skills to use in real life, or you might end up with your very own exhibition in the Crime Museum.

3. It’s hard to believe some entire neighbourhoods manage to stay off the radar, but creative, kitsch and achingly-cool San Lorenzo has done just that. Localnomad has some nice apartments in Rome that will help you feel like a local, and San Lorenzo features in their selection.

4. The eerie Capuchin Crypt is home to the bones of some 4,000 monks, unsettlingly arranged as if they were decorations rather than human remains. Both macabre and humbling, this is a sight you won’t forget in a hurry.

5. There’s nothing unusual about scoffing ice cream in Italy, but the range of flavours at Gelateria Fatamorgana is truly out of the ordinary. Taste bud-tempting combinations such as pear and gorgonzola, almond and cardamom, honey and liquorice or black cherry and beer certainly merit a visit (or three…)

November 6, 2013
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Comments Off on Birmingham – Book for Books

Birmingham – Book for Books

This year’s Birmingham Literature Festival features a host of notable current names from the shelves of the book world, taking part in events, readings and workshops. Digging deeper and judging beyond the cover, Birmingham has a rich literary heritage in terms of authors residing there; four of whom are mentioned below – although none would actually be able to appear in person. But their creations live on!

Jane C. Webb Loudon

If you’re planning on really dressing up for Halloween later in October, then maybe you are considering which horror theme to pursue? If gothic horror is your “Thing”, ‘The Mummy!’ by Birmingham-born author Jane C. Webb Loudon (August 19^th, 1807 – July 13^th 1858) might be an inspiration. This novel mixed ancient and modern – being set in the 22^nd century – and contained fascinating insights into future technologies that now have some strange degree of accuracy. References to steam power and even a concept suspiciously similar to the internet are features. Jane’s other literary vein was that of horticulture – though there is no mention of her even digging up a Mummy.

Arthur Conan Doyle

Not born in Birmingham (May 22^nd 1859 – July 7^th 1930), Arthur Conan Doyle regularly spent time working there whilst completing his medical studies in Edinburgh. Another science fiction and fantasy writer, making use of his medical and scientific education, Sherlock Holmes in his creation, as is ‘The Lost World’.

J. R. R. Tolkien

The author of ‘The Hobbit’ and ‘The Lord of the Rings’, J. R. R. Tolkien spent his childhood in Birmingham and surrounding areas. Born January 3^rd 1892, he lived to the age of 81 – September 2^nd 1973 – and although witness to the age of cinema, he probably would not have imaged the spectacle that the interpretation of his works created on-screen in the 21^st Century. The popularity of his works is reflected in the number of English Heritage Blue Plaques that reference Tolkien and mark the places with which he had a connection; his residence during the time he lived in Oxford, hotels where he regularly stayed and five Birmingham locations marking where he lived.

Middle Earth is a Lost World

W. H. Auden

From novels to poetry, our last chapter covers W. H. Auden (February 21^st 1907 – September 29^th 1973). Auden grew up in Birmingham, but later in life became an American citizen and now that he is no longer with us, his works are more well-known through their inclusion in modern media. This poem, ‘Funeral Blues’, was the touching eulogy delivered by John Hannah’s character in Four Weddings and a Funeral:

Dry your eyes – you won’t be able to read if the words are all blurry!

November 6, 2013
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Comments Off on Are Women More Frugal On Their Travels?

Are Women More Frugal On Their Travels?

Traveling in a particular place especially in other countries means a lot of money to be spent. Whether you are a man or a woman, young or old, traveling simply means a state of continuous spending of your hard-earned money. But here is a big deal – something everyone would like to negate and take a stand or something many would like to defend: are women more practical compared to men on their travels?

Women are Practically More Frugal than Men

When it comes to practicality or frugality, women are known to be more reliable and trusted than men. Guys are usually extravagant and do not necessarily care about what they spend at a particular time and what is left inside their wallets. In short, most men are very much carefree when it comes to spending.

On the other hand, women are more reliable when it comes to frugality because they are simply watchful about the contents of their purse and wallets. They are more conscious and aware about what is needed and what is not.

Traveling with a Woman

One gets the certainty that when he travels with a woman everything is handled and tackled the frugal way. This is especially true when traveling to a different place. The following are proofs that show the frugality of women in general:

They make a checklist for everything she and her group needs during the trip
She tries to make plans before embarking on the trip; this includes the money to be spent throughout the duration of the trip
Women are more meticulous when it comes to choosing budget-friendly items for everyone; in short, women are choosy but practical.
Women are always aware of their existing and remaining money

November 5, 2013
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Comments Off on Why you should use airport lounges

Why you should use airport lounges

Unless you have been inside one of the many airport lounges you have walked passed all those times, you will never really quite understand what you are missing out on. People enjoy the comfort, relaxation and service inside the airport lounges, away from all the hustle and bustle outside. Gatwick Lounges are well know for being an oasis of calm in an otherwise hostile environment. You should also know that the lounges are probably not as expensive as you imagine, you will be pleasantly surprised of what is on offer for such a small charge.

Here’s our list of why you should use airport lounges:

Space, peace and quiet

The comfortable chairs inside the airport lounges are reason enough to go in, you can stretch out and relax before your flight. There is always a way to keep an eye on your flight, some offer a service that if you tell the front desk they will come and remind you when to board. There are usually televisions inside that can be changed by the customers to their favourite channel. There is always a good range or newspapers and magazines to pass the time.

Get some work done

Lounges will all provide computers with internet access, they will also provide wifi. This means it is easy for you to sit back, get online and get to work. Getting online is always straight forward and the connection is usually very good. There will also be power points for you to use if you need to charge your laptop or phone.

The food and drink

There is always plenty of complimentary food and beverage on offer in the lounges. Most have a buffet style of service with a self service fridge. Lounges are perfect for those people that like to relax with a drink before embarking on their journey. There are a lot of lounges that will have a bar where you can get the bar tender to whip up your favourite cocktails.

You might not have to pay

Several credit cards come with the added bonus of free lounge access. You should check your card or call your provider before you head to the airport. If you are flying first class or business class you will usually enjoy complimentary access to the lounges.

October 29, 2013
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Comments Off on New Zealand’s Most Exciting Activities For Tourists This Year

New Zealand’s Most Exciting Activities For Tourists This Year

With so many amazing holiday destinations around the world, it can be tough trying to figure out where to take your family this year. From the theme parks of America to the romantic landscapes of Paris, there’s no doubt that there’s a wealth of choice, especially in Europe.

If you’re looking to escape from the usual confines of traditional holiday destinations however, searching further afield across the world’s spectacular oceans, then you may have already considered New Zealand, one of the most naturally beautiful countries on earth. With rich and diverse cities, and views to simply take your breath away, New Zealand is a family adventure like no other, so let’s take a look at some top activities you shouldn’t miss out on.

Skiing in New Zealand

With breathtaking scenery and fresh snow all around, New Zealand’s winter skiing season offers some of the best runs in the world, perfect for a family getaway. From June to October, the slops are usually packed with budding skiers and snowboarders, and if you book in advance then there’s plenty of chance to get your airfares and hotels at great prices! Queenstown, Mackenzie, Christchurch-Canterbury, Wellington, Central North Island and Auckland are the 6 ski regions of New Zealand, each offering something different for families and individuals alike.

Experience the Maori Culture

The Maori tribes were the first people to discover New Zealand over 1,000 years ago, and they continue to be an integral part of the country’s culture and history. Its rare to find a country with historical ancestors that are still active, and especially in New Zealand, it offers a different element to tourism that is enjoyed by the locals as much as the tourists. If you want to experience a Maori tribe, the tribal meeting grounds are the best place to observe, specifically in Canterbury, Rotorua, Auckland and Northland. Not only will you get to see the Maori singing and dancing, but they might even invite you to eat with them!

Water Activities

Seeing New Zealand by water is an experience you simply can’t miss, with kayaking being one of the most popular ways! With thousands of kilometres of inland waterways and coastline to explore, a guided tour is certainly the best way to combine adventure and education about the area you’re visiting. Furthermore, some guided tours are allowed exclusive access to many of the protected nature reserves, so be sure to check out prices before you fly out!

Sailing is another great way to see New Zealand in all its glory, and this is also very popular with families holidaying here too. From old, historic sailing boats to modern, luxurious floating hotels, exploring New Zealand by see is an unforgettable experience. If you want to find out more about amazing airfares to New Zealand, be sure to compare prices online.

Cuisine

One of the best activities to experience in New Zealand this year is trying out the local restaurants, and if you’re into your wine, you’ll know New Zealand has some of the finest vineyards in the world! Vineyard tours are available throughout the country, and for great discounts, be sure to enquire at your hotel reception desk.

October 28, 2013
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Comments Off on The Smart Girls Tips for Cheap Travel: Insurance, Destinations & Accommodation

The Smart Girls Tips for Cheap Travel: Insurance, Destinations & Accommodation

GOOD DEALS ON TRAVEL INSURANCE

A smart girl knows that travelling is fun. She also knows that in as much as she does not want anything to happen that might disrupt her journey she must take care of herself by getting the best travel insurance deals in town. This cover helps you when your camera gets stolen or damaged, when you miss your flight or when there is an emergency and you have to get home before your trip has ended.

While overseas your current medical cover would never help you if you broke a leg hiking, or got sick. Your travel insurance should therefore first and foremost include medical coverage with specific clauses that indicate whether there would be emergency evacuation if an accident occurred while on vacation. A good policy also includes coverage for electronics, cover most parts of the world, and also cover legal fees if incurred. Go through the policy and check out what the policy does not cover so you will be in the knowhow and ready to take off.

ISLAND HOPPING IN GREECE? STAY IN HOSTELS

Greece is a magical place to be, it is characterized by numerous island each special and different in its own special way. Though these islands have been known to attract the aristocrats and the wealthy it is also possible to take holidays in Greece on a smart girl’s budget. Make use of ferries and discover the different routes they take so you will not be overwhelmed. Hostels in Greece are cheap and give you an opportunity to mingle with other travelers.

The main island which is Crete is notorious for nude beaches and abundant nightlife has affordable accommodation. You can have all the fun and still afford staying in a hostel such as Youth Hostel Plakias which is located on the far side coast of Crete and has no age limitations.

Corfu is an exceptionally beautiful Ionian island with towering rugged cliffs and plenty of harbors which make it a yachter’s paradise. It is naturally beautiful with multiple coves. The Pink Palace Hostel here is the best for budget travelers and is located in breathtaking atmosphere.

STAY IN CHEAP GROUP ACCOMMODATION

Travelling is fun but the sad fact is that you may end up spending so much money on hotel accommodation which may not even be worth their star ratings. As a smart girl, this should not deter you from enjoying the world. Think outside the box and try out other means of accommodations and stay and stay in large groups. Remember the larger the group, the larger the amount of savings per head.

Get great discounts by making large group hotel bookings directly from the owners rather than from agents. Try and negotiate the prices with the owners and check around the desired location if there may be other accommodations around that may beat their prices. Remember most group accommodation mean self catering and cleaning so it is not for the faint hearted. However, it also means great times with company, and memorable moments with your group.

October 13, 2013
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Comments Off on How to Prepare for Your Cancun Trip

How to Prepare for Your Cancun Trip

Cancun is the perfect blend of cultural attractions and beachy, laid-back atmosphere to make your holiday just perfect. You will never be short of things to do in this amazing part of Mexico! Scope out on all the things to do by browsing your holiday to Cancun with Travelbag. But before you go, there are definitely some preparations to keep in mind and take care of, to ensure your trip goes smoothly.

Hydrate

It will be HOT in Cancun, so you want to make sure you drink plenty of water before and during your time there! Make sure you are prepared to buy and drink only bottled water, as the tap water there is not safe for drinking. You can brush your teeth and shower with the tap water, just make sure not to swallow it.

Pack Beachy Clothes

You’re going to be spending most of your time on the beach, right? You don’t need to bring flashy clothes, since it’s a casual atmosphere here. And dressing in flashy clothing can make you a target for thieves. If you don’t exhibit that you’ve brought alot of flashy things with you, you’ll be less likely to be robbed. Bring a few bathing suits, and something to wear for a beach cover-up. Sundresses are always a good bet. If you go between August and February, it can be rainy so bring something to keep you warm and dry. Don’t forget a few pairs of sandals, including one you can comfortably explore town in.

Toiletries

What you need to bring in this category depends on where you’ll be staying. Most resorts will provide you with basics like shampoo, but the more budget hotels won’t give you more than soap. Cancun is very humid so don’t bother with hair products! Don’t forget to pack any gels or aerosols in a 3.4 ounce container or smaller and put in a Ziploc bag if they’ll be in your carryon baggage.

Camera

Don’t forget to bring something to document your awesome holiday! Whether you prefer to travel with a fancy SLR, small digital or just the camera on your phone, make sure you capture all the great moments on the beach and beyond on your Cancun holiday.

Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Travelbag.

September 11, 2013
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Comments Off on Bali For The Whole Family

Bali For The Whole Family

Bali is the perfect destination for an amazing and unforgettable holiday, and the whole family will literally be spoiled for choice since there is so much on offer! The folks in Bali also love kids and they will slather them with attention while engaging them in exciting activities, so there’s no doubt that your children will love the island.

The kids can have fun while engaging in activities, like making kites and painting Balinese masks. The whole family will definitely be enchanted by the surrounding entertainment, from noisy festivals to amazingly picturesque underwater sceneries, and even beautiful nature parks. From Kuta and Ubud to Ssanur and Lovina, let’s take a look at some of the best parts of Bali for the whole family.

Kuta

Most visitors to Bali usually begin their holidays in Kuta before exploring other attractions on the Island. There is no shortage of fun things for the whole family to do, and aside from the throngs of other tourists here, most visitors find it very exciting. You can enjoy some great Italian cuisine and buy cheap souvenirs everywhere you look, however the best excitement in Kuta is centered at the beach.

The kids can fly kites or just play in the sand while those in need of some adrenaline can engage in body boarding or surfing. For some water sports, a visit to the nearby Waterbom Park is an attractive option.

Ubud

Ubud is Bali’s cultural and arts center and it’s perfect if you want to enjoy quiet time away from the busier beaches. It boasts of several venues that offer nightly shows of various traditional Balinese performances, and most of the venues are kid friendly and set in relaxing outdoor environments.

A visit to the nearby Monkey Forest Sanctuary will provide the kids with great excitement as they get to feed the monkeys with bananas. Many other great nature trails can also be explored around Ubud and you can easily rent mountain bikes for easier exploration. You can also take time to visit the Elephant Safari Park and enjoy a 30-minute elephant ride around the park.

Sanur

Sanur boasts of the most child-friendly beach in Bali. Protected by a reef, the waters on the shore are calm most of the time and this makes it a good place to play around with the kids. It also has a string of nice shops and restaurants close to the beach and it’s a great place for taking a relaxing evening walk.

You can also visit the Bali Safari and Marine Park, which is just one hour drive from Sanur, and your family can enjoy elephant rides or watch the animals in the park during feeding time. The park also has other animals like monkeys, tigers, commodore dragons, and a rich birdlife.

Lovina

Lovina is another nice place for the whole family to relax. It is located to the north of the island away from the popular beach attractions in the south, so you should go there with your own entertainment like kites, books, and games. The beach is also protected by a coral reef, which makes it a perfect swimming place for children.

Aside from normal beach activities such as snorkeling and swimming, the most exciting attraction here is taking a dolphin tour. Dolphin tours are offered by most resorts in Lovina and they start early in the morning. Visitors will be taken into the deep sea to see these intelligent and magnificent creatures.

Family holidays can be hectic and expensive. Be sure to get write everything down so you don’t forget anything. Buy travel insurance as a family to save money.

Wherever you plan to go in Bali I’m sure you and your family will have a great time and will make family or friends at home very jealous!

September 1, 2013
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Comments Off on Get “Whisked Away” on an All-Inclusive Holiday with First Choice

Get “Whisked Away” on an All-Inclusive Holiday with First Choice

When you think of an all-inclusive holiday, what comes to mind? Packed tour buses, staying in the same hotel with tons of other travelers doing the same thing, substandard food and “organized fun”? If you’re anything like me, those might be some of your preconceptions of all-inclusive holidays. But you’re definitely not alone; these are common stereotypes of this type of holiday.

But I want to show you that all-inclusive holidays aren’t what they used to be- or what they’re made out to be. They’re an awesome way to travel without guilt or stress because you don’t even need your wallet! Imagine that: a holiday without restrictions or worry about how much money you’re spending each day. This is totally possible, because First Choice offers incredible packages for their all-inclusive holidays and they’d love to whisk you away!

One preconception that I had about all-inclusive holidays is that there’s no adventure. Everything is planned out in advance, so you’re just going along for the ride. And when I’m traveling with my significant other, adventure brings out the romance in our journey! But watching this family get whisked away to Turkey showed me that all-inclusive holidays are definitely adventurous and romantic. They were able to enjoy the luxurious amenities included in the holiday, while choosing the activities they wanted to make their time special.

Another myth that I believed before about all-inclusive holidays is that the options for food and accommodation aren’t quite up to standard. After all, it’s all-included, so how can they make everything so top-notch? But after seeing the amazing hotel and restaurants that this family enjoyed, I was totally convinced that my preconceptions are false. First Choice offers up incredible places to stay and eat while taking away the stress of thinking about how much money you’re spending each day.

So when it comes to planning your next holiday, I’d definitely recommend going with an all-inclusive package like the ones offered by First Choice. They will save you money in the long run, and take away the stress of money so you can go ahead with having a great time! At the very least, check out the video for yourself and see if it changes the thoughts you’ve previously held about all-inclusive holidays, too.