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Budgeting More Effectively With a Hotel Credit Card

If you’re interested in investing into a travel credit card, there are many ways you can get better savings when you have one. A hotel credit card can be a great tool for you to use if you’re looking to save money on your traveling purchases, but not everyone knows how to use hotel credit cards in the most effective way possible. If you’re thinking about how to budget more effectively, here are four ways to use a hotel credit card while getting more out of it.

1. Put More of Your Daily Purchases on the Credit Card

The more you spend on a travel credit card, the better your benefits. That means if you’re able to put a significant amount of your daily purchases on your travel credit card, you’ll be more likely to earn enough points that you can get free nights. If you can, you may want to pay attention to what categories give you extra rewards points so you can get as many extra points as possible.

2. Make Sure You Can Achieve the Sign-On Bonus

Sign-on bonuses are extremely common with credit cards, but they typically require that you spend a certain dollar amount. The World of Hyatt credit card bonus, for example, gives you 30,000 extra points, but requires that you spend $3,000 within the first three months to access it. If you’re able to do that, you’ll get more benefits from your credit card than if you’re not sure whether you’ll be able to meet that requirement.

3. See If a Card With an Annual Fee Will Give You Better Benefits

It can be tempting to go with a card that has a $0 annual fee just because it seems like the $0 annual fee is lighter on your bank account. However, if you choose to upgrade to a card that has an affordable annual fee, you may be able to get a significantly better selection of rewards. Those extra benefits may be more than enough to offset the annual fee.

4. Utilize as Many of the General Bonuses as Possible

There are many general bonuses that often come along with a hotel credit card. You may get purchase protection, extra travel insurance, and more. However, these types of bonuses only come into play if you actually talk to the company and request coverage when you need it. Make sure you’re using your general bonuses if they’re applicable so you get the most out of your card.

Conclusion

A hotel credit card can be a great investment if you’re the type of person who really loves traveling. However, even if you love traveling, you still need to know how you can utilize your travel credit card in the best ways possible. The best way to get more out of your hotel credit cards is to make sure that you take these four tips into consideration, as they’re a great way to save even more on your general budget.

 

Mistakes to Avoid When Starting a Car Rental Business

When the pandemic started, many states implemented travel restrictions to slow down the spread of the virus. The situation affected the car rental industry and forced some large companies to file for bankruptcy.

After the situation improved, people started to travel again. But the industry faced a different challenge as the supply of new cars declined due to a microchip shortage after the factories producing them closed. Despite this, the industry took advantage of the increasing number of leisure travelers in different parts of the country.

This makes a car rental business an appealing option for entrepreneurs looking for a new business to set up. Even though the industry prospects have turned brighter, entrepreneurs should avoid making mistakes that will prevent them from succeeding in the industry.

Here are some mistakes you need to avoid when you set up a car rental business.

Overlooking International Travelers

With the country opening its borders to vaccinated international visitors, you should expect more international travelers patronizing car rental businesses. This is particularly true for international tourists who want to visit the different tourist sites in the country.

While the situation is good for business, you should also remember that these travelers have a higher risk of getting into an accident. Many of them are unaware of the traffic rules in different parts of the country. And if they come from the United Kingdom, they can get confused since they drive on the left side of the road in their home countries.

So, you should prepare yourself for these travelers and reduce the risk of accidents by proving them with a small training module to prepare them for the road. It’s also important to tell these clients about the different traffic rules before they rent your vehicles. You should make sure to inform them about the norms in the city and country roads to keep them safe and prevent accidents while they are on the road.

Ignoring Business Expenses

The low supply of new vehicles has affected auto rental services since they couldn’t buy new units for the business. Buying a new car allows you to reduce maintenance expenses since they require lesser maintenance compared to older cars.

But if you are new to the industry, you should also consider the cost of acquiring a new car. You should weigh out the advantages and disadvantages of buying a used car at the start. This is particularly true if you have a limited budget.

In these situations, you should consider looking for reliable no-credit-check car dealers, especially if you are short in funds. These companies have an in-house financing program to allow you to replace any vehicles that cost too much to maintain. They also offer affordable prices for their vehicles, which is ideal for a tight-budget business.

Once you save enough funds, you can consider buying newer models. But for the moment, you should check the models available in these dealerships.

Using a Manual Booking System

Using a manual booking system makes the task of managing and keeping records tedious and inefficient. The system also makes it challenging to change pricing whenever the car rental business offers promotions and deals. Additionally, the chance of committing errors is higher when you use a manual booking system.

Developments in technology will make the job easier for you. You should consider investing in an automated rental management system to improve productivity and efficiency. The system should facilitate promotions and management of prices. It should also allow you to automate daily activities in the business.

Creating a mobile app is another way to connect with potential clients since it allows them to rent a car using their smartphones. Technology offers a lot of benefits for a car rental business. So, you should start using it the moment you launch the business.

Ignoring Brand Awareness

To connect with your customers, you should build up your brand to stand out in the market. One way to do this is to increase your online presence and make sure your brand reaches your target market. Aside from a website, you should also build your social media presence to connect with your market through this channel.

Since you are new in the industry, you should work hard to provide the best services in the market. You should avoid bad reviews to entice clients to use your services. Monitoring the activities of your competitors also allows you to create new promotions and deals that are appealing to your customers.

The increasing number of domestic and international tourists has made the car rental industry an appealing option for entrepreneurs looking for a new business to launch.

Making Money Off Your Land with These Property Development Ideas

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A piece of land is a versatile asset that can be a lucrative source of income if positioned in a strategic location. If you manage your properties well, you can generate a steady profit without the stress of most ventures. What you need for this investment is a plot of land and the kind of business you want to use it. Having a vague idea of what kind of venture you can develop the land into will not be enough. You’ll know the perfect business to invest in with a bit of research.

By knowing your land’s surroundings well and the kind of market you’ll most likely have, you’ll come up with the best idea for it. For example, suppose it’s in a busy town. You can use it as a commercial space and lease it out to shop owners, and if it’s near tourist spots, establishing an inn or a homestay will help you make the most profit.

Keeping your piece of land lying around will not increase its value. While it’s still a part of your assets, you can benefit from it by developing it into one of the properties below.

Turn It into Lodging

Travel has always been popular among the old and the young. So when you capitalize on that and if your land coincidentally is somewhere near popular spots, turning it into lodging is the best idea.

If you have yet to get land of your own, you can entertain the condo unit for sale listing you’ve seen on some housing websites and use it for short-term lodging like an Airbnb. Building a bed and breakfast venture or even a homestay will let you accommodate short and long-term renters and get reliable income all year round.

Lease It Out While You’re Away

Going away for work or moving to another city to grab an opportunity you can’t pass on may require you to sell you’re home. However, say you have the financial capacity to fund your move without liquidating your house. You can keep it under your name and use it to get additional income.

For example, you can rent it to individuals looking for a six-month to a year-long contract. You can even benefit from not having to come back once in a while to deep clean your vacated home and get on top of maintenance and repairs.   

Rent Out Your Extra Space

If you choose to live a minimalist lifestyle and have plenty of rooms to spare, you can use those to make money on the side. Living with a roommate who can pay for accommodation and split utility bills with you is a guaranteed win-win situation.

However, you can still make money without the housemate situation if you value your personal space and don’t want anyone infringing on your privacy. You can rent out storage spaces and use your available rooms to keep other people’s belongings within a limited amount of time.

Sell It

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Having a new start seldom entails selling off your properties. But if you feel like your piece of land will thrive better in the hands of other people, you can let your property go by selling it. There are advantages and disadvantages to having a structure built on your land and selling it as a barren piece of investment.

Some people might like that there’s already an establishment made on it since they only have to do renovations instead of building one from the ground. In contrast, others will opt for one that no longer needs demolitions—it all boils down to the market you’re planning to offer your property.

Develop It for Commercial Use

Unlike a passive one like real estate, people who have a knack for handling an actively managed business can use their property to house the shop they plan to have. With a privately owned plot of land, you don’t have to worry about making the monthly payment and spend the money you save on the other aspects of your enterprise.

But despite the benefits of having your own shop space, you now must think about the perfect venture to establish according to the area’s market.

Try Urban Farming

Money is not the only thing you can raise on an empty lot. If you’re not entirely down with the idea of manning an inn or selling your land, you can use it to further your lifestyle instead. Fresh produce can be hard to come by in the city. Using your plot, you can create an urban farm to get your share of newly harvested vegetables and fruits.

No matter how premium the space is, as long as you know how to maximize every area using tiered plant holders, you’ll get to reap healthy crops.

Don’t let your piece of land lie around much longer. Get to developing it to earn money and generate a reliable income.

How to Stay Safe When You Are Traveling Alone

Traveling alone and seeing the world freely as you want is the dream most people wish for, and even when security measures are constantly evolving, you can never be too sure.

There are even some who consider traveling alone as a dangerous venture. These people would prefer to have at least one companion during travel adventures. Understandably, it is the best decision if you are not confident on your own. After all, there is power in numbers.

However, even if you are confident and comfortable going to a strange place, you need to be careful. Here are some of the most important tips you would need when you are staying alone in your travel accommodation (and these apply to everyone, not just men).

Try to Walk With Other People

When you are in your travel accommodation that still meant that you are in a public place. You are amongst other people, and you can never be too sure if there are criminal minds who are already stalking you, checking what your routine looks like. It is not uncommon especially for underdeveloped countries to have crimes even in a place such as a hotel or inns, and criminals usually prey on people who do not know the area. These unknowing people are almost usually old people, students, and tourists.

So, what you would want to do is sit down and wait in the lobby for a few moments. Wait until there are other groups of people flocking out of the hotel, and casually walk with them on your way out. You can even make friends with these tourists, especially when you are staying in a place for a few days. Remember, criminals preys on people they think are vulnerable, and even if you aren’t, it is better to be amongst fellow tourists.

Stay in One Travel Accommodation, If Possible

Speaking of staying in a place for a few days, it is highly advisable to stay in one accommodation only. We can name a few good reasons but put it this way. The longer you stay in your chosen hotel, the more familiar you would get with the area. You would know your ways and routes better, and the staff would also remember your face. It is helpful especially when you are traveling alone. It can be your safety net if ever something happens. When the local staff knows you, authorities would have better chances of finding you. Think about it. That is why it is advisable to talk to your clerks. Say a couple of greetings and make sure they know you, and remember that you are staying in their hotel.

Moreover, if you are planning to skip towns or do island hopping’s during your travels, it is better to stay checked in and leave your belongings in the hotel. Well, that is if you can afford it. It would be safer and more efficient.

Do Not Forget to Inspect Your Travel Accommodation

The last important thing you need to know is that there are accommodations that do not respect clients’ privacy. Unfortunately, there are cases that guests find hidden cameras in outlets, sprinklers, and mirrors. Therefore, the first thing you need to check is the mirrors in your room, especially those that are facing your bed. Check the mirrors by pressing your index finger against the surface. If there is a gap between your fingertips, the mirror is safe, but it isn’t, which means it is a double-sided panel. Usually, there are people behind the mirror that can see everything you are doing.

Moreover, you also have to be mindful about the public amenities of the place. Does the place have a gym? Do they have a separate workout area for women or not? What kind of pool do they have? Is it a luxurious glass pool, or a fun DIY pool with fence? Knowing these things will set your expectations, and prepare yourself with any possible threats you may encounter.

There are even cases when sheets and pillowcases are not changed unless the stains demand them to. Hence, it is important to book accommodations that are trusted by many. Check the reviews and guests’ experience over social media. If the circumstances would allow it, find one that you trust so that you will have a go-to hotel or inn in the future. Lastly, it is highly suggested to book with Airbnb Super hosts. That means their place is tested and proven, as well as how they are welcoming guests.

When you are traveling alone, remember that your safety starts with your travel accommodation. Your travels should not be something that you would do in fear and hesitation, so make sure you start on the right foot. Choose a reliable hotel or inn that you will feel comfortable and safe in, and everything else would follow.

 

Raising a Dog is a Commitment: What It Takes to Raise a Dog

Raising a dog isn’t easy. You’ll need to be committed to your new four-legged friend, take care of him or her, and make sure that he or she is well taken care of. If you’re raising a puppy, it will also take time for them to grow up and learn how to behave. Fortunately, raising a dog is fun!

People who own dogs will tell you that they are worth the work. Dogs provide companionship, love, and security in a home. They can be great additions to any family and can help reduce stress levels. Sure, you might need to invest in things like a dog trainer, food, toys, and a bed, but your furry friend is sure to be worth all your expenses.

Why Raising a Dog is Worth It

Raising a dog is not easy, and it’s something that you have to do with commitment.It might be hard for those who are new to the process of raising a dog, but with determination and dedication, people can easily learn how to be great dog owners. There are many reasons why raising a dog can be rewarding, and some of those reasons include the following:

  • Dogs provide companionship

Dogs offer us love and friendship that is unmatched by any other animal. This is because dogs are naturally affectionate, and they love to be around people. They will stick by our side no matter what happens in life because dogs are the best friends that people could ever get.

When raising a dog, you can expect them to always have your back whenever you need support – even during difficult times when we don’t feel like we have anyone else to rely on. Therefore, owning a dog will help people feel more connected and loved.

  • Dogs help us stay active

Another great benefit of raising a dog is that we are forced to get up and move around, even if we don’t feel like it. Dogs need to be exercised regularly, so owners have to take them for walks or runs every day. This is great because it encourages dog owners to stay active, which is always a good thing.

By staying active with your dog, you can also help to build a strong bond between the two of you. Dogs love spending time with their owners, and getting regular exercise is one of the best ways to make sure your dog stays happy and healthy.

  • Dogs are great for our mental health

Finally, dogs are known to be great for our mental health. They can help us reduce stress and anxiety, and can provide us with a sense of companionship that is hard to find elsewhere. If you’re looking for a way to improve your mental well-being, then getting a dog may be the perfect solution for you.

Despite these benefits, raising a dog is not without challenges. Below are important things you need to know about what it takes to raise a dog:

  • You need to provide food

Owning a dog means you need to provide them with food. Different breeds have different dietary requirements, so it’s crucial to do your research before you bring a dog into your home. You’ll also need to brush up on how much food they should eat per day and what types of foods are best for dogs in general. This way, you can be sure your dog is getting the nutrients they need to stay healthy.

  • You need to provide water

Just as you need to provide food for your dog, you also need to make sure they have access to clean water at all times. This means having a designated spot in your yard or home where your dog can always go to drink water if it is thirsty.

  • Regular check-ups and vaccinations are necessary

Owning any pet means facing veterinary expenses at some point during their lives. Dogs need to be taken to the vet regularly so that they can be checked for parasites, get their shots updated, and more. This is one of the best ways to keep dogs healthy and happy.

  • You need to clean up after them

Owning a dog means making a commitment to clean up after them. You need to be responsible for picking up their poop whether it is in your yard or on a walk. This is essential for keeping your dog healthy and the environment clean at the same time.

Dogs can bring a lot of joy into people’s lives. However, deciding to get one is a big commitment. It is important to consider all the factors that go into raising a dog before getting one. This way, you can be sure that you are ready for raising one.

Seven Most Epic Hikes in Nepal for Adventure Lovers

The King of Mountains, Nepal, features some of the greatest hiking paths for mountain lovers and trekkers. The blend of breathtaking mountain scenery and fascinating culture unarguably makes Nepal one of the top destinations for trekking. Additionally, being the foundation of eight of the world’s ten tallest mountains, there are countless routes to explore and spectacular scenery to see.

With that said, here’s a list of the top 7 most epic hikes in Nepal. Please go over the list and make a plan to explore them in the future.

Everest Base Camp Trek

World-famous Trekking destination, Everest Base Camp Trek, needs no introduction. The finest scenery is available here, and the incredible opportunity to observe legendary Sherpa culture adds more flair to the hike. Also, the picturesque villages under the shadow of giant mountains are the bonus of this trek. Moreover, the exhilarating flight to Lukla is an unforgettable delight of the EBC trek. All of these fantastic features make the EBC trek one of the epic hikes in Nepal.

Mardi Himal Trek

Remote, less busy, delightful mountain scenes, fairy-tale forests are a few things one can anticipate in Mardi Himal Trek. Although not famous as other treks in the Annapurna region, it quickly gains admirers for its unrivaled mountain views. From the daring height of 4500 meters at High Camp, travelers get to witness an up-close view of the Annapurna massif. Overall, the trek is full of lovely panoramas, which is why it is one of Nepal’s epic hikes.

Ghorepani Poon Hill trek

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a well-known trek for marvelous Annapurna sceneries and magnificent sunrise and sunset views. The walk goes through wonderful rural villages allowing travelers to taste the pastoral lifestyle of Nepal. Likewise, another highlight of this journey is to admire the all-encompassing views from Poon Hill. Overall, it is an engaging journey full of impressive vistas and cultural interaction.

Annapurna base camp trek

The Annapurna Base Camp trip will take you through magnificent landscapes from beginning to end. The journey passes through numerous lovely towns, thrilling subtropical rainforests, and flowing waterfalls, providing ample opportunities to experience Mother Nature. The excursion also involves walking on the glacier, which makes it even more exciting. All the more, the contrasting landscape and jaw-dropping backdrop make it one of the best treks in Nepal.

Annapurna Circuit trek

Dubbed as a classic trek in Nepal, the Annapurna Circuit trek is Nepal’s most awe-inspiring trekking route. The hike traverses through the rich green valley to barren landscapes seamlessly. It also entails walking past exciting landscapes and enjoying medieval gompas and traditional villages. With each passing town, travelers get to immerse in glorious traditions and cultures under the shadow of majestic peaks of Nepal.

Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a visually pleasing journey that takes you to the pristine corner of Nepal Himalayas. Notably less busy than most treks on the list, it goes through mesmerizing jungles and remote villages to reach the foot of Mt. Manaslu. This trek is perfect for trekkers who wish to explore Nepal’s raw and unfiltered natural and cultural beauty.

Upper Mustang Trek

Upper Mustang Trek is a glamorous trek in one of the remotest regions of Nepal. The hike does not involve making many ascents and descents; thus, it is relatively easy on the legs. But its moderate nature is not only the fascinating aspect of this journey. Its arid landscape and stunning vistas, chalk-white villages, fortified monasteries, and wall caves are a few things that make hiking in the Upper Mustang the best walk of your lifetime.

Final Words

Beyond these treks, there are several other paths that are scenically pleasing and outstanding. Kathmandu-based and expert travel operator- Nepal Hiking Team recommends travelers try one of these incredible hikes before exploring other stunning trails in Nepal. All the journeys promise lovely times and memories to last forever.

What Off-Site SEO Services Does an SEO Consultant Provide?

An SEO Consultant will provide search engine optimization (SEO) services that will help your website rank higher on search engine result pages for relevant searches. Search Engine Optimization is a broad term, so there’s no one way to put your website ahead in the search result rankings. An SEO Consultant works for the betterment of your online presence so you can achieve your business’ sales and growth ambitions. The consultants usually offer a variety of SEO services that aim to increase organic traffic to your website via search engines.

Consider helping your business website lure in more traffic by outsourcing to an international off-site SEO consultancy in Cape Town, Denver or Toronto.

Off-Site SEO Services from an SEO Consultant Include:

Did you know that Google was responsible for nearly 70% of desktop searches all over the world? Here are some of the Off-site SEO services you can benefit from.

Constructing a Backlink Framework

Did you know that backlink building is a major influence on your search engine page results rankings? Even today, over 55% of web pages on the internet don’t have any sort of backlinks. Building backlinks means that you are connecting the content on your web pages to reliable and authoritative websites across the internet.

This increases your reliability and authenticity as an information and service provider on the internet, and that’s what an SEO consultant can help you do.

Improving Social Media Presence

For businesses to thrive in today’s digital age, a social media presence is essential. You may already know that businesses use social media platforms to direct traffic towards their website and increase sales. In that case, an SEO consultant can help you create posts such as articles, blogs, videos, and ads that attract more viewers, likes, shares, and reposts. This way, you get higher rankings in search engine results and more direct traffic.

Increasing Reach through Content Marketing

SEO consultancy primarily revolves around content marketing. It involves the production, publishing, and distribution of content across the internet, allowing you to engage with different types of target audiences online. But if you lack the experience, content marketing can be difficult to manage. That’s one reason why there are several online SEO consultancy agencies on the web offering these services for reasonable prices.

Content is the primary method of attracting the target audience. After all, most online and offline advertising methods are now obsolete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Still looking for more info? We’ve compiled a list of FAQs – check them out!

Is organic traffic growth achievable in reality?

Yes, organic traffic for your website can increase via effective SEO services. However, the increase is gradual, and you may not notice it instantly.

Can you rely on international SEO consultancy services?

There are only a handful of international online digital and SEO consultants in cities like Cape Town, Denver, and Tornoto who provide noticeable results. So yes, you can rely on international SEO consultancy services.

 

Why Modern Homeowners Shouldn’t Neglect Home Improvement Projects

 

Nowadays, modern homeowners are usually busy. Between work, family, and everything else in between, there never seems to be enough time in the day. However, they should not neglect home improvement projects for this reason. Home improvement projects can help modern homeowners save money on their utility bills and make their homes more functional.

All home improvement projects need to be taken care of by homeowners. For example, furnace repairs, roofing replacement, and even changing busted light bulbs should be immediately attended to. This way, modern homeowners can avoid serious home improvement issues down the line.

Home Improvement Projects for Modern Homeowners

These days, modern homes are much different from homes built in the past. Hardware such as modern appliances, modern plumbing fixtures, and modern insulation do not last forever. Modern systems can malfunction or stop working completely if homeowners neglect home improvement projects or home maintenance tasks for too long.

To keep a modern house fully functional, homeowners must engage in regular home maintenance routines. A standard home inspection will reveal problems that plague modern homes. A modern homeowner can hire a contractor to address current system failures or tackle home maintenance and repair projects on their own. Whatever they decide to do, modern homeowners should ensure that contemporary systems are properly maintained to keep their homes functional.

Below are home improvement projects that modern homeowners should not take for granted:

  • Adding more space

One of the most important things that modern homeowners should focus on is adding more space to their homes. This is critical because modern homeowners tend to have larger families or simply need more modern storage and living spaces for their modern lifestyle needs.

Many modern homeowners find themselves in a jam when they realize that the size of their homes cannot accommodate all of their family members, which results in some members having to sleep on couches or somewhere else. Therefore, modern homeowners should set aside a budget for the latest home improvement projects that will expand the living spaces of their modern homes.

Another thing modern homeowners should focus on is adding modern storage space to accommodate all of their belongings, which tend to be bigger and bulkier than ever before. In addition, many homeowners have advanced gadgets today-from laptops and cell phones to tablets-which also require storage space.

  • Investing in smart appliances

Modern homeowners should invest in modern appliances that are energy-efficient to help them save on utility bills and home improvement projects. Modern homeowners should also invest in smart gadgets that can be controlled from their phones to help them save on energy usage.

Finally, modern homeowners should invest in modern appliances that are low-maintenance because they will likely use these appliances more frequently than traditional home appliances. Investing in high-quality modern appliances is definitely a worthy investment for any homeowner looking to improve their home.

  • Enhancing the lighting

Lighting is vital in a modern home because good lighting will highlight modern home design features and modern decor. The proper lighting is a worthy investment because it can also help modern homeowners save on energy costs by highlighting areas of the home where natural light isn’t available, such as dark corners or hallways that aren’t frequently used.

Modern homeowners can also invest in adding more windows to their homes so that more natural light can enter their homes. Natural lighting offers a lot of benefits to homeowners, such as improved moods and improved sleep quality.

Homeowners can also install modern home lighting fixtures and chandeliers to brighten up dark corners or hallways of the contemporary home. Adding these features will definitely improve the look of a modern home.

  • Investing in modern furniture

Modern furniture can also be chosen as homeowners begin to revamp their homes. Modern furniture is known for its sleek and contemporary design, which can also improve the look of a modern home.

Modern furniture pieces are made from modern materials such as glass or steel so that they will fit into any modern décor theme that homeowners may choose. By using modern furniture pieces, they will be able to enjoy a better home experience.

Investing in a Good Home Experience

Modern homeowners should not neglect home improvement projects because modern homes are made to provide them with a better home experience. Modern home improvements allow homeowners to enjoy their homes even more than they already do by ensuring that their homes meet all of their needs and desires. Therefore, neglecting home improvement projects should never be tolerated so that modern homeowners can continue enjoying their modern homes.

 

What You Need to Look Out for When Looking for Affordable Hotels

It is a known fact that almost everyone enjoys traveling. Getting to move around and experiencing new cultures and environment is a great way to get a thrill out of the simple pleasures of life. It is known that traveling, especially for vacation purposes, can be quite expensive which ends up being discouraging for multiple people. If you are not careful, the travel costs, living expenses, and the money you will need to explore and tour the city might end up leaving a huge dent in your wallet. Luckily, there are a few budgeting tips you can try out, especially when it comes to hotels. When you spend less money on where you are staying, you will end up having more for trying out new things in the city.

Here are a few tips on getting good deals on hotels while traveling.

Compare prices online before booking a hotel

Thanks to the internet, you now have the advantage of doing your research when looking for places to stay during traveling. With this, we are now able to check and compare the difference in cost of staying in multiple hotels, and what facilities they have to offer to back up their prices. Here you will be able to see which options will fit within your budget and whether you will be getting your value for money. You will also be able to see what benefits customers get from each hotel such as free taxis from airports, laundry services, and others.

Look up hotels that do not appear on major search sites

Just because some hotels do not appear in the top ten hotels in the area does not mean that they are not worth consideration. It is possible to find multiple hidden gems that offer top-notch services and are considerably cheaper than most four or five-star hotels. An interesting tip is to look up the aesthetic that the hotel is providing, such as vinyl vs laminate flooring, which will be able to give you a bit of insight into the quality the hotels are offering.

Stay within your budget

It is important to set up a budget when traveling, and this is especially important when it comes to booking hotels. This will be able to show you the maximum amount of money you can spend, and prevent you from tapping into your savings due to extra expenses you incur. It is also important that you set up some expectations for yourself and the company you are with when traveling, to avoid using money carelessly due to guilt.

Vacation during off-season

We all know how crazy hotel prices can get especially during holidays and summer breaks. Hotels are bound to charge more when the demand is overwhelmingly high. This is why you should consider traveling during the off-season so that you can save yourself some money. You will find that these rewards usually extend beyond hotel prices, as flights are seen to cost much less as well as popular tourist sites.

Look for packages and discounts

It is possible to find some hotels offering packages that are workable and suited to fit your situation. They usually have discounts that can save you some money, especially if you are traveling in a large group. A lot of packages bundle their services by offering several services under one discounted price, which helps in saving in the long run. You can also find some coupons which will be able to help you reap rewards as you save money during hotel bookings. However, you should make sure you read the fine print to ensure you book your hotel during the time frame mentioned and avoid cancellation fees.

With these tips, it is clear that you can ensure you are getting true value for worth when it comes to booking hotels without having to break your bank. Enjoying your time while on vacation is possible, especially when it comes to looking for places to stay. Do not rush in deciding where to stay because of the brand a specific hotel offers.

 

Ideas for Throwing a Beer Tasting Party at Your Home

Many people love to throw home beer tasting parties for their friends. They love to throw open the double French doors and enjoy sharing favorite craft beers with people in a comfortable environment. In this post, you’ll find information about how to plan a successful party, what to serve at it (both food and drinks), plus some tips on what types of games you can play with guests.

1) Always invite a variety of friends

If you’re going to spend your money on a new beer, then it might as well be tried by people that can give their honest opinion. The perfect mix is usually about 50% casual drinkers and 50% experienced craft beer fans. Inviting too many experts may result in them being dismissive of the beers you’re trying, while inviting too many casual drinkers may result in them being overwhelmed. Sticking with the middle ground will ensure that everyone has a good time and enjoys their beer selections.

Create an invite list. Make sure to include all of their names on your guest list so you know who is attending ahead of time.

2) Choose a variety of beers to serve

There are two main types of beer—lagers and ales. Lager is the most common type you’ll find in stores. They’re light-bodied with low alcohol content (usually less than four percent). Ales have more body, higher ABV’s (alcohol by volume), and have a more pungent, more distinct taste. In addition to the difference in their characteristics, you’ll need to consider how much experience your guests have with beers before deciding which type of beer tasting party you want to throw.

Ales: A wide variety of ales are available, and most people will be able to find something they enjoy. Experienced craft beer drinkers will enjoy trying new and exciting combinations, while casual drinkers may find a pint too strong.

Lagers: Lager’s are the most popular type of beer in America, so chances are your guests have tried them before. They’re straightforward to drink but often lack character or complexity. Casual drinkers are likely to enjoy them, while experts may find them boring.

3) Serve a variety of snacks

It’s tough to enjoy a beer on an empty stomach. You can’t go wrong with pairing your beers with chips and salsa, pretzels, or cheese. Experienced drinkers may handle more filling foods like wings or mini-pizzas, while casual drinkers will probably prefer lighter options. In addition to the type of food, you’ll want to consider how filling it is and whether or not your guests will be able to enjoy their beers while eating.

Snacks: Chips and salsa, pretzels, cheese mini-pizzas, wings, more filling foods (ex: chili), lighter snacks (ex: popcorn).

4) Put together a fun game or two

Whether you want to play trivia, cards, or beer pong, the most important thing is that your guests are engaged and have a good time. If they’re not competitive by nature, it’s best to avoid more traditional games like Monopoly. In addition to making sure they’re having fun, you’ll need to choose games that will let guests relax and enjoy their beers; otherwise, they may be too distracted to talk or make meaningful conversation.

Games: Trivia (ex: Cards Against Humanity), beer pong drinking games, more relaxed social games (ex: Scrabble), no traditional party games (ex: Monopoly).

5) Have enough glasses and bottles

It’s no fun to let a perfect beer go to waste because someone drank it from the wrong type of glass. You’ll need about one bottle or can per person (that adds up fast), plus an extra set for yourself. Most craft beers come in 22-ounce varieties, which you can either split between two glasses or serve as a single full-sized pour. If your guests prefer pints, then just make sure to have enough pint glasses for everyone.

Glasses: Pint glasses (ex: shaker), snifter glasses, tulip glasses, taster glasses, bottle/can amount, one bottle or can per person, one extra set.

6) Have a backup plan

The last thing you want is for people to get bored and leave. If it’s starting to look like there won’t be enough beer or snacks, make sure that everyone knows they can feel free to bring some of their own. In addition, consider planning a few more activities in case things get dull. If you want to avoid any potential problems, consider having a friend or family member over for moral support just in case.

Backup Plan: More snacks (ex: chips & candy), bring your beer friends or family for moral support.

7) Choose a location that’s fun for everyone

You may be thinking about throwing your beer tasting party in the comfort of your home, which is an option. If you’re looking to mix it up, though, consider hosting at one of these places instead:

Location:  Your home outdoor location (ex: backyard), bar, restaurant brewery, pub.

Depending on the type of beers you have, different snacks will pair better than others. It’s also essential to make sure everyone has a good time and can relax while trying new things. To do this, put together an engaging game or two that matches your guests’ interests. You’ll also need to take into consideration how many glasses and bottles you’ll need. Last but not least, make sure everyone knows they can bring some of their own if required.