Low Cost Airfare - By: Jacky Uy

By: Jacky Uy

1. Comparison shopping is the first tip for finding low cost airfare. Purchasing tickets online, through airfare consolidators, and through travel agents are the most common sources for purchasing tickets. If you have time, shopping through all of three of these is the easiest way to get a lower priced ticket.The time of day, company you are flying with, the destination city, and so many more factors need to be considered in getting low cost airfare. Here are some factors that affect the price on an airline ticket.

2. Purchase tickets in advance. Usually, you can get low cost airfare fourteen days or more before the date of the flight. Typically, you will pay higher prices if you book them within fourteen days and the prices progressively get more expensive the longer you wait to purchase the airline tickets.

3. Another method for finding low cost airfare is by choosing an airline that will fly you close to your destination city by not directly into it. Airlines that fly to smaller cities have no choice but to offer cheaper price. Otherwise, the smaller cities would have no use for airports, which is where a lot of imports and exports take place for local businesses. So, you can take a plane to a smaller city and rent a car to take 30 or 100 miles to your destination. You will still be saving money, as most people rent cars when they reach their destination. You may even get a cheaper rate on the rental car for the same reason. Smaller cities, cheaper prices.

4. Flying during the evening and early morning hours will help acquire low cost airfare. Most late night and early morning flights have a few available seats and offer them at discounted rates for these hours. Not very many like to travel during these hours, so it makes perfect sense.

5. Try not to fly on important dates, such as holidays, and don't fly on the weekends. Holidays and weekends mean money for the airline industry, so they have a tendency to mark up the prices. It is difficult to receive low cost airfare on any holiday or on any weekend day. So, try to go to your destination well before the holiday or well after and try to fly in the middle of the week, Tuesday or Wednesday.

6. Flying to destinations, when the destinations spots are not in demand is another way to find cheap airline tickets. For example, you would probably want to look at tickets to Florida destinations in the middle of summer for Northern states because the tickets to Florida are not in demand. In order to keep the airplanes flying there, the airlines have to offer discounts to the customers.

7. Frequent Flyer miles are a wonderful way to save money on airfare. If you know that you will be traveling by airplane frequently or even once a year, you may want to pay a higher price for the tickets that offer frequent flyer miles. You can purchase the airlines tickets to your destinations until you have acquired enough miles to get a ticket or pair of tickets free. This costs more upfront, but if you add up the costs over time, you will see that overall you receive lower prices by doing this. Low cost airfare is much easier when you travel frequently and frequent flyer miles offer another advantage to travelers.

8. If you allow your flight to have a layover, you will find low cost airfare. Layovers, while mostly inconvenient to the traveler, offer a much cheaper price to that same traveler. Major problems with layovers include loss of baggage, too short of a layover could mean missed plane, and separation from family member that could result in one person or two being left behind. This can also be a problem if you are traveling with small children. You have to make sure you allot extra time to get your family from the arrival gate to the departure gate to make sure you do not miss your flight.All of these tips will help you save money on airline tickets. The main thing to do is to weigh out your options and chose the right tickets and flight for you. The tips above should help guide you if you are looking to make a great trip without paying a lot out. Hotels are expensive enough, take as much as you can from low cost airfare

About The Author:

Jacky Uy writes for http://www.cheapairfareguide.info where you can find out more about cheap airfare guides and other topics.

Article Source: http://articlecity.com

New Pinterest Board!

Started using Pinterest today! My first board is pictures of some of my favorite subjects... cities from the air! Check them out here: https://www.pinterest.com/samsworldwidebl/cities-from-the-air/

Tips for Better Vacation Photos - By: Valerie Goettsch

By: Valerie Goettsch

Photos are a great way to share your travel experiences with family and friends. Here are a few suggestions to help you capture vacation memories you will treasure for years to come.

PLAN AHEAD

Make sure your digital camera is in good working order before you go, and keep it in a water- and shock-resistant case. Bring two sets of rechargeable batteries and don't forget the charger and relevant cords. Make sure your camera has enough memory. Packing an extra memory card is wise, as there is nothing worse than running out of room for pictures halfway down the Grand Canyon. It may be tempting to lower the resolution so you can store more pictures, but you will regret this later as it may result in poorer quality prints, or you will be limited to smaller size prints. Set your camera at its highest quality JPEG setting and get more memory if you have to. You will appreciate this when you're viewing and printing your photos after your trip.

TAKE LOTS AND LOTS OF PICTURES.

With a digital camera you can always erase the photos you don't want. Take pictures of anything you find interesting and try to focus on some of the details such as an attractive doorway or a colorful market, not just panoramic scenes or major landmarks. Let your pictures tell a story by creating a visual diary of your trip. Include street scenes, interesting signs, people you see along the way. For variety take both vertical and horizontal pictures.

READY FOR YOUR CLOSE-UP?

When taking people shots, don't make the mistake of standing too far away. You want to be able to recognize the people in your photos. Get close enough so you can see the expressions on your subjects faces. Zoom in on individuals or capture them from the waist up. Pictures are often more interesting when you can catch people at candid, un-posed moments. In posed photos, try to incorporate some of the background into your shot. Try snapping from interesting angles rather than simply head-on.

USE YOUR FLASH

When photographing in bright sunlight, setting your camera's "fill" or "forced" flash is very helpful, particularly when photographing people. Brilliant sunlight often makes people's faces look harsh, casting dark shadows under the eyes and accentuating wrinkles. The daytime fill-in flash will soften the lighting and make the images more flattering. Your family and friends in the photos will thank you!

EDIT AND ENHANCE YOUR FAVORITE SHOTS

When you get home you can edit, crop and enhance your favorites using photo editing software such as Foto Finish, Ulead or Photoshop Elements. Consider adding drama to your images by turning some of your color photos into black and white or sepia tones and then upload all your images to an online photo printing service like Ofoto or Shutterfly for fast and convenient prints. You can take your best snaps and use your photo editing software to create a photo calendar or make photo cards for personal notes, or to email your favorites to family and friends.

Most of all have fun with your camera!

About The Author: Valerie Goettsch publishes the digital photography website
http://www.digitalphotos101.com featuring reviews of photo editing and album software and digital photo printing services.

Article Source: http://www.articlecity.com/articles/travel_and_leisure/article_119.shtml

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

I don't want a lot for Christmas

There is just one thing I need

I don't care about the presents

Underneath the Christmas tree

I just want (one thing) for my own

More than you could ever know

Make my wish come true oh

All I want for Christmas is... FOOD!!!

Hope y'all have a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS and A HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Got My International Driving Permit!

(UPDATE ON 05-14-2019: Some of the information in this post is no longer accurate, so a new post on the topic of applying for and obtaining International Drivings permits has been made.

Please, click here!)

After getting the immunizations mandated for my YWAM DTS yesterday, we went up to AAA's (American Automobile Association) Bay Hill office up in Orlando to get my International Driving Permit (IDP). Originally I was going to mail-in the AAA application (found here) but, I needed 2 matching passport sized photos. So after a couple phone calls, we decided that it was best to just go and apply in person; no waiting period and I could pay with a credit card.

AAA charges $10 for passport photos on-top of the standard $15 fee for the IDP itself. Now if you are a premier AAA member you get this fee waived.

The IDP will good for one year from date of issuance. However, you can ask them to date it to a future date as I did but, not more than 6 months in advance.

To be honest, I am not sure that I will be using my IDP at all but, for such a small fee I wanted to be safe than sorry. I doubt that I would want to drive in NZ as they drive on the left; not sure how I would adapt to that. But, maybe if I visit Europe next year! :P (Check-out my GiveSendGo page: https://www.givesendgo.com/ywamnz)

Though I got my permit through AAA you can also get one through the National Auto Club (NAC). They are the only two private entities in the United States authorized to issue them to holders of US driver's license. So, if you see another entity offering them it is probably a scam. For more up to date information on IDPs, please visit: http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/go/safety/driving.html

Note: While I do try to make sure all the information I provide is accurate, I will make no guarantees. Please do your own research. Also, I am NOT affiliate with AAA, NAC or USDOS. The links provided here will take you to other websites, click responsibly.

Update on YWAM Preparations - #2

Note: If you are interested in contributing to help me meet my YWAM Tuition costs, please click here... (https://www.givesendgo.com/ywamnz)

This morning I got my Tetanus and Typhoid immunizations taken care of. Though, I only really needed to get my Typhoid immunization, the nurse at the county health department suggested that I go ahead and updated my Tetanus Booster (Tdap) as well. Technically I was good with my Tdap until 2018 (once every 10 years) however, she said for active traveling an update every 5 years was recommended.

As for my Typhoid, I got the pill option, it will take about a week for full immunization. I take one pill every other day (4 pills). This treatment is actually a “Live Virus” but, I will not be contagious or anything. She said some stomach upset and tiredness will be the most of my worries. However, with the pill I am good for 5 years vs. just 3 years with the shot and the pill option was cheaper... poor marketing if you ask me. :P

All in all, I went in today not planning to get any shots but, I ended up getting two. The other was for a non-travel related immunization regiment that I fail to complete when I was a child. So, I am all set healthwise for my trip... SO EXCITED!!! :D

Next task is to get my International Driving Permit from AAA. Doing that today, leaving in a few minutes...

Ten "Travel" Commandments - By: Marli Davis

By: Marli Davis

I. Thou shalt pack HALF the clothes you want.

II. Thou shalt take TWICE the money you will need.

III. Thou shalt pack an abundance of Patience.

IV. Thou shalt NOT count calories, especially on cruises.

V. Your extra large luggage shalt have wheels.

VI. Thou shalt NOT feel guilty if you don't write and mail postcards until after you return home.

VII. Thou shalt pack a little Caution.

VIII. Thou shalt practice using your new camera BEFORE

you depart on your vacation.

IX. Thou shalt NOT pack uncomfortable shoes, no matter how attractive they might be.

X. Thou shalt have wonderful experiences that will flow into wonderful memories!

Copyright (C) 2003 by Marlene M. Davis
All rights reserved.

Article Sorce: http://www.articlecity.com/articles/travel_and_leisure/article_13.shtml

Update on YWAM Preparations - #1

Note: If you are interested in contributing to help me meet my YWAM Tuition costs, please click here... (https://www.givesendgo.com/ywamnz)

My YWAM base notified me that I need to update my Tetanus and Typhoid immunizations.  Who knew finding in-stock immunization vaccines was so difficult? I thought that I lived in a "first world country!" Not to mention that my local county health department has yet to return my call a week later.


Well, I got some time before I need to get the shots. If all else fails, I will get them in NZ before my Outreach Phase begins. However, I really want to get them state side just in case I have a negative reaction, I don't think I will but, better to play it safe. BTW, I hear that they now have pills for Typhoid... :)

Best Beaches in Florida - By: Dave Hoff

Visitusa.com is committed to singing the praises of a variety of beaches in Florida that visitors to the Orange State may enjoy. To that end, we've compiled an extensive list of the best Florida beaches we could find. So with out further ado, here are some of the best beaches in Florida. 

Fort De Soto Beach is a historic fort built during the Spanish-American War located on Mullet Key. This 900- acre park has 7 miles of beaches, 2 fishing piers, picnic and camping areas, a small history museum and a 2,000-ft. nature trail. 

Florida's Gulf Coast, Caladesi is one of the few remaining large undeveloped barrier islands in Florida, and is only accessible by boat. It is an perfect locations for swimming, fishing, picnics, diving, hiking and nature study. 

Key Biscayne's beaches in Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park's visitors can stroll by the Atlantic, charter a deep-sea fishing boat, ride a jet ski, or just relax. It's one of the best places in Greater Miami for golf, sunbathing & water sports 

Perdido Key is a natural paradise is home to plentiful native wildlife. The clear green waters and miles of soft white sand are perfect for sunbathing or water sports and it's considered one of the America's best swimming beaches. 

South Beach is a happening hot-spot with a chic night life. The "American Riviera" is great for couples on spring break (that can afford it anyway) since rowdy crowds of teenagers are rarely seen on its upscale sands. 

Greater Fort Lauderdale has 23 miles of sun-drenched beaches and is perfect for people watching or shopping and dining at any number of great beach shops and restaurants that line the clean and eco-friendly beaches. 

St. Joseph Peninsula State Park's miles of white sand beaches and striking dune formations characterize this Florida Panhandle area. Boating, saltwater fishing, camping, canoeing and hiking are all popular St. Joseph Peninsula activities. 

Clearwater Beach offers nearly every water and beach activity conceivable, and nearby Pier 60 Park has a family recreation complex with playgrounds, fishing and concession stands. 

Anastasia State Park is home to several rare, threatened and endangered species. Located on Anastasia Island, near St. Augustine, this beach provides opportunities for Camping, fishing, picnicking, hiking, beach volleyball, boating and more.

St. George Island State Park sits on 9 miles of undeveloped beaches and dunes. It is surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico and Apalachicola Bay, and is a perfect setting for a quiet Florida getaway. 

Daytona Beach is called the "World's Most Famous Beach". Visitors can drive automobiles on the sand by day and stroll the boardwalk by night, stopping occasionally to enjoy the arcades. Daytona Beach is also a major surfing hotspot.

Ad: Top Destinations #10: Click Here for the Best Miami Beach Hotel Deals!

Siesta Key is one of the most popular the beaches on the southwest coast of Florida and is famous for its soft white sand. Amenities include lifeguards, concessions, picnic tables, grills, restrooms, showers & volleyball & tennis courts.

Author Bio

Looking for more information on Florida Beaches check out visitusa.com your outdoor adventure travel guide

Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com - Free Website Content

Happy 1st Birthday... To My Travel Blog Of Course!

To be totally honest, I cannot believe that it has been a year since I started this travel blog. I am so excited for future travels, my YWAM DTS in New Zealand (http://bit.ly/1Ncg7Tj) is just next month... God, time is flying!

Some current stats:

Total Page Views: 1850
Number of Visiting Nations: 25+
Blog Posts: 65 (including this one)


My First Blog Post:

"A New Adventure"

"While I have traveled the world, this "Travel Blog" stuff is totally new to me. However, I will not shy away from a new adventure. I might not be the most traveled person in this world but, hey... I got info to share and stories to tell."

I have sure come a long way in one year! To the FUTURE!!! :D

Global Real Estate Trend - 2015 - By: Stephen Pern

By: Stephen Pern

The Urban Land Institute jointly with PwC produces the annual report of the Emerging Trends in Real Estate in United States, Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe. Further, these reports are generated by in-depth analysis, surveys and interviews with the leading realty professionals across the globe.

Over the years, these reports are considered as the key indicators for property developers to determine the realty growth in their respective countries. In the Emerging Trends in Real Estate 2015 report, the realty insights of the regions across the globe are revealed. The report also highlights the real estate development and relevant investment trends of the future.

Following are the reports of the regions across the globe;

Asia Pacific

Irrespective of the economic downturn during the year 2015, it is expected that the property market will remain robust. This is owing to increasing capital flow into the real estate industry by various investment sources (both international and domestic). As per the Emerging Trends in Real Estate Asia Pacific 2015 report, Japan remains the most preferred country for investment. The capital city Tokyo ranked first and Osaka ranked third in terms of development prospects and investment for the upcoming year.

The report also reveals that the logistic industry in Asia has been playing the major role in booming the commercial real estate sector. The major countries that have been witnessing a great commercial development by the impact of logistics include Japan, Singapore and China.

Apart from commercial, the demand is also high for the residential properties in Asia due to increasing automobile industries and IT developments for the past few years. Further, the Asian countries have been targeted by the IT and commercial bigwigs across the globe to further their development units at the time to come.

United States

According to Emerging Trends in Real Estate 2015, the property market of the US is expected to be strong and perform well throughout 2015. Both the domestic and global investors will show a great interest in buying an asset in the US, as they will get the higher return of capital in the future. The major factor that makes the US stand apart from other regions is its improving fundamentals.

Europe

In the year 2015, it is expected that Europe's real estate industry will be more lucrative and busier in 2015 despite its economic conditions and fundamentals, says the report. The core reason for optimistic expectation is the availability of capital. Also, the interviewees and respondents of Emerging Trends Europe's survey anticipate an increase in both secondary and prime values as a result of greater liquidity.

Africa

Africa has been targeted highly by the developers and investors, as they consider African real estate is one of the key emerging markets. The key factors that drive the property market of Africa include demographic shifts and changes in consumer behavior in the recent times. These reasons have encouraged the global investors to enter various markets in the region.

Stephen Pern is an interior designer by profession and a contributing writer with IndiaProperty.com. She specializes in creating small aesthetic changes in space of any kind

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Stephen_Pern/1980804

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9084568

Two Days in Auckland - By Tracey L Christensen

By: Tracey L Christensen

Like any capital city, Auckland is packed full of places to see and things to do and the best way to see it (if you have the time) is to wander around exploring every nook and cranny and visiting every attraction, restaurant or site possible. But... if you have limited time you need to be much more organised and having a clear itinerary is definitely the way to go. There are a great range of hotels in Auckland offering excellent Auckland CBD accommodation close to most attractions, restaurants and sights so you don't waste too much time getting around. Getting around Auckland isn't difficult, there are plenty of taxis, buses and trains in the CBD plus the Auckland 'Hop on, Hop off' Explorer charges a reasonable fee and allows tourists to hop on and off the bus all day, and stops at most of the major Auckland attractions.

Day 1

Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki is first stop on your two day tour of Auckland. The gallery is the home of visual arts in New Zealand and boasts over 15,000 artworks by Maori and Pacific Island artists as well as international artists. Allow a couple of hours to look through the gallery and factor in some time for a coffee and cake at the gallery cafe. Next stop is the Auckland Zoo, home to New Zealand's largest collection of animals and known as one of the most progressive zoos in the world. The zoo is set on 17 hectares of lush parkland and houses 138 different species. Finish day one with a walk around cosmopolitan Viaduct Harbour and a quick visit to the Voyager Maritime Museum followed by a relaxed dinner at one of the Viaduct's waterfront restaurant. Retire to your Auckland CBD accommodation exhausted.

Day 2

Start day two with an adrenaline-filled jet boat ride around Auckland's beautiful Waitemata Harbour followed by a quick ferry ride from Auckland to Devonport for a much more relaxing brunch. Take some time to explore the charming seaside town, its beaches, shops and galleries. From Devonport head back to Auckland CBD and visit the Auckland Museum with the world's largest Maori and Pacific Island collection housed in New Zealand's most iconic and impressive heritage building. From here it's a short trip to the famous Sky Tower, Auckland's tallest building where you can enjoy 360° views of Auckland from a 1.2 metre wide observation deck called Sky Walk, 192 metres above the city streets. Adrenalin junkies may want to take the experience one step further and have a go at Sky Jump - described as base jumping while attached to a wire. Once back on terra firma a great way to conclude your two day trip to Auckland is with a sunset dinner cruise on Auckland harbour. There are several companies offering dinner cruises leaving out of Viaduct Harbour and if you're lucky you may get to see some dolphins while you're out there. A quick trip back to one of the excellent Auckland airport hotels means you'll be ready to fly out first thing in the morning knowing that you've seen the best of Auckland.

For more information on Hotels in Auckland including Auckland airport hotels and Auckland CBD accommodation visit Choice Hotels New Zealand online.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Tracey_L_Christensen/1188471

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7977479