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Picture this. You are sitting back in your all inclusive hotel and relaxing in the sun when you notice an exclusive snorkeling excursion offered that will take you around the island, provide you with a romantic dinner, and show you a number of exclusive sights that normal tourists do not get to see.

 
Sounds perfect, doesn’t it?

 
The problem is that the opportunity is only going to be perfect if you planned to have enough money to make it happen.

 
And that isn’t always as simple as we thought.

 
The last thing you want after a big vacation is to feel like you missed out on something, have any regrets, or be dealing with credit crunching debt. This is especially true if you end up traveling somewhere in a group and all your friends can afford an excursion while you can’t.

 
For many, the days of traveling on a bare bones budget with barely enough to survive are over. Living off of food scraps, sleeping in seedy accommodations and skipping out on luxuries used to be the epitome of a good time.
Things certainly do change over time don’t they?

 
Thankfully, it is possible to have your cake and eat it to when it comes to budgeting and traveling for pleasure. If you plan ahead, search for bargains, and cut out some overpriced tourist luxuries, then there are ways to afford an excellent vacation on a reasonable budget.

 
All you need to realize is that budgets aren’t always as much of a downer as people think. Do it right and the rewards far outweigh the drawbacks.

 
So let’s get our travel budget done.

 
Not All Destinations are Equal

 
If we want to create a travel budget properly then the first thing we have to do is accept the fact that not all destinations are equal, or even affordable. One week in certain destinations in Europe can cost exponentially more than an entire month in a South American destination. The fact that most of South and Central America is more affordable makes planning a little bit easier, but there are still noticeable variables all around.

 
To budget properly for a vacation means to be prepared. While your dream may be to sit in a quaint coffee shop in Paris and watch the sunset, you need to ask yourself whether you would rather pay the same price for a cup of coffee in France as you could for an entire night’s stay in a Latin American hotel.

 
While traveling is all about personal preference and choice, you need to really think about the global financial situation. Back in the 1960’s Europe was easy to do and see on less than $5 USD a day. Now you would be lucky to find one, classy alcoholic beverage for less than $15. This price difference is especially glaring if you have a flair for luxury. You can settle down in a 3 or even 4 star hotel in places like India and Argentina for $50 a night. However, if you walked into a hotel in Madrid and slapped down a $50 bill you would be laughed out of town.

 
Thus, the best way to begin a budget is to figure out how much you can spend, and then compare what that money will get you in different places of the world. If your budget is $1,000 and it means you can only stay in a place like Norway for 2-3 days maximum is it really worth it?

 
Starting your Travel Budget like a True Financial Expert

 
Start off planning your budget by sitting down and figuring out the maximum amount of money that you would be ok with spending on your vacation. The good news here is that you can usually bump that figure up a bit because of all the money you are saving by not being at home. For example, food costs, utilities, your phone bill, and so on.
So if you decide that you have a maximum of $2,000 to spend on your vacation, then you begin by subtracting the price of airfare from your budget. If your flight costs $800 then you have $1,200 to spend while you are in the chosen destination. If you plan on spending two weeks away from home, then you now have just over $85 to spend per day including food and accommodations.

 
That is more than enough cash for some places, but far from enough in others. You may notice that some destinations you seemed “destined” to see just are not meant to be. Does this mean that you are forced to sit at home and do nothing again this winter?

 
Absolutely not.

 
The Dreamer’s Budget

 
This is the style of budget for people who simply want to make things happen. If you want it bad enough there are always ways to get it.

 
Sit down and look at your dream destination and try to calculate how long you will need to stay there. How long will it take to see everything you want to see and do everything you want to do? Next, figure out how much it is going to cost to see and do all of those things and stay in your destination for X amount of days.

 
All that is left to do is to convince yourself to spend that much money. If you simply cannot come up with the money, then try to lower your expectations for accommodations or plan the trip in the offseason. Even try cutting down on costs at home for a month or two beforehand. If you want that vacation bad enough, you will find a way to get it.

 
Putting Together your Travel Budget

 
Once you have decided where you are going, and have a good idea of how much you have to spend, it is time to get into the actual budgeting.

 
It may not be fun and it may not be easy, but it is the best way to make sure you make the most out of your dream getaway.

 
Here is how you can come up with the total cost of what you think your vacation is going to end up setting you back. (Or forward if you are a positive thinker)

 
1- Pre-Vacation Costs

 
These are the costs of everything that you will be purchasing before the vacation. This includes any visas you need to get, new clothes, sunscreen, a new camera, or anything you may be investing in to make the trip that much better.

 
2- Air Travel

 
Look online and come up with an approximate cost for airfare for the specific time of year you are traveling. Be sure to sign up with a site such as Yapta.com to ensure you get the best deals.

 
3- Miscellaneous Transportation

 
This part of the trip cost includes taxis, buses and other ways of getting around that you will be using for your trip. You can utilize guidebooks to give you a good idea of cost and the itinerary of the attractions you want to see will give you information on what transportation you will be using.

 
4- Accommodations and Meals

 
The best way to estimate the cost of your accommodations and food over the course of your vacation is to use the internet and up to date guidebooks. While it is pretty impossible to come up with exact figures, there is more than enough information out there to give you an excellent guesstimate.

 
Keep in mind that there may be fluctuation in pricing while you are there and since other tourists have been there. If you plan something such as $50 a night for accommodations for 2 weeks, be sure to add about 10-15 percent to keep you safe in case there have been changes. So if you calculated that 2 weeks for accommodations will be $700 be sure to $100 just to be safe.

 
The same goes for meals.

 
5- Extra Activities

 
If you do not plan ahead and budget for extra excursions and fun activities then they can destroy your budget. These experiences are things such as sailing, rafting, snorkeling, fishing, and so on. Chances are that these opportunities are going to be all around you and you won’t even know you can do them until you get there.

 
So once again to be on the safe side you should check guidebooks and the internet as well as call travel agents to see what sort of activities are abound in the area. These resources can give you a good idea of what different excursions will cost and which you are interested in. However, it is also a good idea to always budget a little extra for this part of your trip as you never know what opportunities you will come across or what sort of deals you will stumble upon.

 
6- Miscellaneous Purchases

 
This is the category of your travel budget that you want to add a little extra money to. This will cover things like any clothing or souvenirs you buy, beverages, postcards, tips and a whole host of other things. Whatever you think is an appropriate number to add into this section, add at least 25% more to it.

 
Putting it All Together

 
The key when it comes to budgeting for travel is to overestimate. One of the safest ways to budget is to add up all of the money in these categories and then once again add an additional 10% to 15%. When you are not at home you simply never know when unexpected expenses will arise, or what temptations may surface.

 
You are far better off over exaggerating your travel budget than underestimating it. If you end up coming home from your dream vacation with extra money in your pocket, that will be a definite bonus. However if you come home from your dream vacation to an unbearable credit card bill, then your wonderful vacation memories can often fade.

 
If you have finished creating your budget and find that the grand total is out of your reach it doesn’t have to mean the end of your vacation plans. The principle of a budget is to figure out what you have and what you can afford. If it looks like your trip is going to shift your bank account into overdraft then reconsider a few purchases, items or attractions. You still have time to cut down on costs and alter the plan to fit your lifestyle and your budget.

 
Lastly, avoid budgets that take into account only the basics. Not only will you often have less fun but you will often end up spending far more money than you originally planned to. Take into account what you can afford, leave some room for leeway, and make your dream vacation happen.

 
If you want it that badly, you will find a way to get it.

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Photo By Permanently Scattered

While there are an infinite number of challenges to face when it comes to moving abroad, the truth is that many of us make it more complicated than it needs to be.

 
Yes there are different ways to live, of course people have different ideas of the lifestyle they want, and obviously general rules are not going to apply to everybody. However, if you respect your new country and use common sense you will find the transition abroad is often far easier than other people make it sound.

 
Here are 2 basic rules for living abroad that can do wonders and help you avoid culture shock and getting home sick.

 
Rule for Living Abroad #1- Make an Honest Effort to Learn the Language

 
There is a wide range of expats in the world and it is impossible to group them altogether. However, as you will notice when traveling, there are quite a few expats who will complain about racism, unfairness, paying more than locals for goods, and the attitude they get in certain situations.

 
While this does not apply to everybody, in most cases these people have run into these situations because they do not respect their new country or the people within it. Many Canadians, Americans and Europeans will whine and complain if immigrants come to their country without learning the local language, yet they are more than willing to do the same in return.

 
By practicing the language, engaging in basic conversation with locals and simply proving you respect the culture and the people, your transition into the community will be made far easier.

 
Even if you cannot grasp the language at all, the effort alone makes a very impressive point to the people around you.

 
Rule for Living Abroad #2- Live like the Locals

 
Many expats wonder why they get dirty looks from locals in their new country, or are forced to pay more for certain items like groceries. Yet, these are often the people driving around in supped up SUV’s, living in mansions, and spending frivolously.

 
If you turn your nose up at the lifestyle of the locals, then chances are you can expect them to do the same to yours.

 
This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t live an affluent life abroad if you have the money, it just means you still have to appreciate the people around you. There is no need to flaunt wealth, drive through local farms with your SUV or mock local food and instead head to McDonald’s.

 
Simply be aware of your surroundings and engage in the local culture, flavors and activities. Dance to the local music, sing out loud to the local songs, and attend local festivals and parties.

 
Living abroad is all about the experience and not always about sustenance. Remember that and your entire transition will be made much easier.

Respect those around you, whether you are broke or a king, try to blend in with the culture, no matter how weird it seems, and show that you are sincere about the country you are heading to.

 
If you make it obvious that you are only there for the tax breaks or cheap rent, then you shouldn’t be surprised if you are treating like an outsider.

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Viking Cave Photo By Fitri.Agung

Simply put, the cost of living in Thailand is astronomically lower than the majority of cities within Europe, North America and most of the world. There are an exponential amount of expats that are finding out how easy it is to get by on as little as $10 a day. The better news is that if you take advantage of these tips for living cheap in Thailand you may even be able to live on even less than that. Sounds like the perfect escape doesn’t it?

 
Well it can be.

 
This type of living isn’t for everyone, and there are many people in Thailand that spend an incredible amount of money per month in order to live affluently. However, if you are considering moving abroad to save money or are interested in finding an affordable vacation then this is the article for you. All you need to do is use common sense and cut a few corners here and there, and you may save more money than you even realize.

 
Where and When to Visit Thailand

 
One of the best ways to save money when traveling to Thailand is to plan your trip according to the low season. This is between May and November and means that prices for absolutely everything from airfare to hotels and even food at classy restaurants are a lot cheaper. You can even rent scooters for a better price and get discounts on attractions, drinks and shows.

An added advantage to the low season in Thailand is the fact that there are fewer tourists in the area, which means better access to a number of places and events for you. On top of that most business owners will be dropping prices and throwing in amenities and bonuses in order to compete for your valued money.

 
Steer Clear of Touristy Areas

 
Places such as Phuket and Ko Samui are known as top tourist destinations in Thailand, which means they come with extreme prices and are full of merchants looking to take the most money out of your pocket as possible. If you want to save money and connect with the “real” Thailand then try and head to the South and North Eastern parts of the country.

 
Cut Down on Island Living

 
The islands of Thailand are incredibly impressive and well worth a visit, but expenses can really stack up in these areas. Everything in the area needs to be imported which means prices for food, drinks and even services are much higher than on the mainland. You will definitely want to tour the islands, but leave your wallet at home and stick to souvenirs and restaurants in cheaper areas.

 
Overnight Traveling

 
Hotels and accommodations are probably going to be the most expensive part of your stay in Thailand, but you can eliminate part of that cost by taking overnight buses and trains. You can travel to an all new part of Thailand and get a decent sleep as many of the trains in the country are quite comfortable. While there are a number of overnight buses, trains are considered to be quite a lot safer, and far more comfortable.

 
Dining and Sleeping in Thailand

 
A good tip for traveling in Thailand is to never feel bad when locals, or anyone for that matter, offer you free things. Many Thai families are more than willing to share what they have and it is a part of their culture to display their kindness and ability to host. Turning down an invite to dinner may seem ruder than simply accepting and counting your blessings. Who knows, a family dinner may even lead to a free place to crash for the night. Now that’s what we call traveling cheap.

 
While you may not need to fork over any money, you should always be willing to give what you can when dining in someone else’s home or crashing on their couch. Simply offering to do the dishes or run some errands can go along way, and help you feel more welcome during your stay.

 
Find Free Water

 
You may not realize how expensive purchasing bottled water every day can get, especially when you are used to your Brita filter or just drinking from the tap. Instead, give this idea a try. Purchase large bottles of water, which are cheaper in the long run anyways, and then feel free to refill them in your hotel lobby before you head out for the day. It is quite a common occurrence for people to do so and you will not get the weird glances in your direction like you may if you did the same at home.

 
Fight your Urge to Tip

 
A lot of people see a lack of tipping as rude, but that is simply not the case in Thailand. While a lot of us have been raised and taught to tip based on good service, it is simply not expected in Thailand. Locals do not tip and foreigners are not relied upon to either. In fact, in some instances tipping is seen as a rude and unnecessary display of wealth.

 
Indulge in Local Cuisine

 
Surely you have had your fill of western food before heading to Thailand. To be honest, the imported foreign food in Thailand does not even taste the same or as good as the stuff at home, so why not just skip out on it altogether?
Thai food is delicious, cheap and diverse. The best part is that you will never be more than 5 minutes away from a food cart or a cheap restaurant where you can grab a quick bite to eat.

 
Leave the Alcohol in the Mini Fridge

 
There is more than enough whisky and beer available at the supermarket and it is extremely cheap when compared to bars and the mini fridge at your hotel. If you really want to cut down on costs then you can stick to cheap Thai Whisky, but it may leave you useless for the whole day after.

 
Added Tips about Thailand Law

 
Police in Thailand are more than willing to dish out fines for people not wearing seatbelts on the road and motorcyclists who opt not to wear a helmet. Just because the locals do it doesn’t mean that you are going to get away with it either.

 
Littering is taken pretty seriously in Thailand and a tossed cigarette or throwing an empty beer bottle in the street can lead to a fine if the police see you do it. This is another law that locals tend to get away with breaking but where foreigners and expats are fined all the time. Thai people may be welcoming and friendly, but they do not want tourists coming in and making a mess of their streets or beaches.

 
Employment in Thailand

 
There are quite a few jobs that are available where you can get paid under the table in Thailand, however it is illegal. Teachers and anyone planning on doing business within the country should make sure they go through the Visa process and fill out all the right paperwork. If you want to simply earn a little cash on the side while touring the area by all means go for it, but be aware that there are consequences for breaking the law if you are caught.

 
Thailand has always been a popular vacation destination and it is quickly becoming one of the most popular places where expats head to in order to work abroad and save money. However, just like with any other destination in the world it is possible to blow all of your cash here if you try to live a certain way. Use common sense, try to keep tabs on your spending and make a budget, and get caught up in the local flavours and culture.

 
The Land of Smiles has become the Land of Opportunity for many, whether they are looking for a brief getaway or a new life abroad in Thailand. It is up to you to make the most of this unique and dazzling paradise and these tips should help you along the way.

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Photo By Swami Stream

Guest Article By Arjun Nanda

India is the second name of unity in diversity. India, versatility like nowhere else, you sure can’t find so many places worth watching, under one roof. India is the land of yoga, Ayurveda,  Kumbh Mela, meditation and much more. You name it and India has it. From the great Himalayas, to the seventh wonder of the world, sun kissed beaches, cold and hot deserts, jungle safaris, a wide range of flora and fauna and much more, a visit to India shall leave you gasping for more.

India offers you a blend of multiple cultures, colourful festivals, beautiful architecture, a variety of legends and hospitality like no place else. A huge beautiful blend of heritage, culture, religion, adventure, wildlife and hospitability, yes, this is what India is like.

In India you have beautiful hill stations like Srinagar, Shimla, Dahlousie, Dharamshala, Musoorie, Kullu , Manali, Darjeeling, Ooty, Mt. Abu and many others. Srinagar is even known as the only paradise on earth, owing to its serenity. Musoorie was named the queen of the hills by the Britishers. The climate and the natural beauty here is something that you’ll fall in love with. Also, not to forget that the north boasts a lot of beautiful temples in remote areas far from the routine haphazard life namely the temples of Amaranth, Srikhand, Kinnar Kailash, Mani Mahesh and Man Sarovar lake.

Then comes the belt of Haridwar, Rishikesh etc these places are not only famous for thousands of years old cultural heritage and temples but also for the adventure side like jungle safaris, such as the Jim Corbett park and river rafting. In the north other places worth a visit are Chandigarh and Amritsar. Amritsar is famous for the historical heritage and also the Golden temple. Then comes Rajasthan, Jaisalmer, Udaipur, Jaipur and Junagarh. These places boast a lot of royal heritage and architecture in the form of their traditions and architecture. India also boasts one of the seven wonders of the world, that is the Taj Mahal in the city of Agra.

India has beautiful beaches to flaunt and you can have a glimpse of them at Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Bengal and Gujarat, given the long coast line of India.

The architectural beauty is at its peak in India. The fine examples of such work of beauty are Dilwara jain temple, Konark Temple, Qutub Minar, Lal killa, Char Minar, Konark temple, Sun temple, Mahabalipuram, Khujrao, Ajanta and Ellora caves, Fatehpur Sikri and the forts of Rajasthan. There is no dearth of adventure such as the angling, camel safari, beach sports, Himalayan trekking, paragliding, jeep safari, scuba diving, skiing, polo, rock climbing, Thar desert, hot air ballooning and the fun in kerala backwaters.

The adventure cities of India are Port Blair, Leh Ladhak, Gangtok and Jaisalmer.  The wildlife is available in plenty, and India makes sure to present it to you in the form of Gir national park, Kaziranga national park, Sundarbans, Periyar and the Bharatgarh wild park. India is also famous for its road tricks and legends. The national currency of India is Rupee, with 45 INR equaling to about 1 USD. The national language of India is Hindi but English is the official language, so that reduces a lot of trouble for the foreigners. India is a multi ethnic state and has a lot of religions prevailing in its territory, namely Hinduism, Sikhism, Jainism, Buddhism, Christianity, Muslim and Parsi cult. Thus with this kind of cosmopolitan approach India sure is making progress leaps and bounds.

Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata are the four metropolitans of India. These cities are a perfect glimpse of modern India. One on side they have a lot of historical heritage to boast and on the other side they have developed into being one of the most developed cities not only in India but also in the world. Besides, these four cities there are cities like Hyderabad, Banglore, Ahemdabad, Surat, Luckhnow and Gurgaon which are the technological hub of India.

Today, India is the next big thing in technology and is emerging as the strongest economic power of Asia and of the world. India is also making a lot of progress in Education with it producing the maximum number of professionals in various fields such as information and technology, engineering, management, science and defense.

India is producing a lot of job opportunities and is definitely being seen as the next superpower of the world. The BPO’s, LPO’s, the tourism industry, pharmacy, medical sciences and the human resources expats can fetch jobs in all the above said niches. The online work has flourished like nowhere else in India. The USD is easily and readily accepted in India and those who earn in dollars make good money in India as USD converts really well to INR. Though most of the Indian population is farming, there has been a rapid shift to technical jobs in the recent past. For anyone interested in owning a farm and spending a life of ease in countryside, India is the place to be.

In India the cost of living may vary from region to region because the cost of living here depends directly on your salary and generally where the cost of living is high you manage yourself higher salary provided you are skilled at your profession. The cost of living in India can be said to be in between 35 to 40 % of your salary. Housing is not bound to be a problem provided you are ready to pay the money. There is not a scarcity in the housing but it can be a little expensive, especially in the metropolitans. A lot depends on your local contacts because a lot of negotiation is possible before finalizing the price. In the end you may find yourself in the accommodation that you had just wanted and also on the price that wouldn’t pinch you much but all depends on the right type of contacts and yes, luck!

If you are considering moving to India then there was never a better time to do so than right now. India is a booming power in today’s world and there is a lot of opportunity available here, given the increase in its foreign trade and the infrastructural development at the pace of light. India is no wonder going to serve you as the best investment ever because in the times to come the world shall see India shining.

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Some modernity, quite a bit of serenity and a whole lot of tropical ease make up the ingredients of a perfect holiday destination, or the perfect place to throw down your hat and call home. If it is that sort of lifestyle you are after then Bahamas is definitely one of the places to be. There is often no better place in the world that offers these ingredients as well as a relaxing way of life with all the comforts of home as the Bahamas.

 
The Bahamas is spread over a number of islands that extends up to 700 and twenty five hundred cays. This alone provides one with sparkling opportunities to explore coral reefs, go scuba diving and dive down and snorkel. That is just the beginning of activities that are available in the Bahamas. If you love to do it, you will find it here. While it is impossible to get into all of the details of what the Bahamas has to offer, we are going to provide you with enough information to help you decide if this is a place that you want to call home.

A Little Bit of Background into the Bahamas

The capital of Bahamas is Nassau and it is the perfect place to be, given the ample number of beaches and resorts in the city. The entire country is rich in musical taste which centers on the traditional ‘goombay’ and some down town rake and scrape. Location wise, no wonder, it is almost impossible to find a better place than the Bahamas less than a 100 miles off the coast of Florida. It has the perfect climate averaging a tad over 75 degrees and is a dazzling destination for weddings, siestas, parties, honeymoons, family vacations and expats looking for a little more out of life.

 
Touring and Vacationing in the Bahamas

When in the Bahamas behave like Bahamians do. Check out the bars, restaurants, casinos, go scuba diving and take a stroll to Atlantis and check out the best shops in the world. The tourist activities are endless and you can just about anything that springs to mind. The water activities range from scuba diving, snorkeling and fishing. If golf interests you then there is no better place than the Cable beach golf course. You can go shopping at the famous Bahamian shops and boutiques and then there are the beaches of the Bahamas, apt for water sports, sun tanning and simply kicking back and getting away from it all.

 
You may also want to venture out and partake in exciting cruises. And that’s not all, while in the Bahamas you’ll have exclusive access to various museums such as the Bahamas historical society museum, the Pompey museum of slavery and emancipation and the Roselawn museum. The nation has a rich historical heritage that includes parliament square, balcony house and the queen’s staircase. Further, you can have a glimpse of beautiful gardens such as the Versailles gardens and the retreat.

The Bahamas is also well known for its rich flora, fauna and also has some interesting zoos to boast, for example, the crystal cay. The tourist attractions of the Bahamas are numerous and this leaves you with a lot of choice to pick from. The top rated tourist attractions are Bullocks Harbor, Chub Cay, the Eleuthera Islands, the Exuma Cays, the Exuma iIlands, Great Abaco, Harbour Islands, Inagua Islands, Nassau, Rolle town and San Salvador also known as the Rum cay and The Bight. You may get exhausted visiting all of these places, but the sights are not something you will tire of no matter how long you stay in this paradise.

Culture in the Bahamas

Culturally, The Bahamas is quite rich. It is a blend of African and European cultures and has a whole lot to offer. It is noteworthy that the bohemian culture at the present time is also deeply influenced by the American culture, music and television owing to the increased commercialization and growing amount of tourism. Despite all this the Bahamians haven’t lost their uniqueness.

 
The national language is English. The people have a great taste in music as Junkanoo music has originated in the Bahamas. The Bahamas also has given rise to many carnivals and fashion parades. It is a super religious country and is also known as the Christian nation, needless to specify that Christianity is the main religion here. The currency of the Bahamas is a dollar (BSD) and the GDP per capita is $22,359. 

Finding a Job in the Bahamas

If you are considering moving to the Bahamas to find a job then this is another country that boasts quite a bit of variety. The prime jobs for expats are those in the teaching and the hospitality industry, given that the Bahamas is a popular tourism spot. There are ample amounts of jobs available in the tourism industry such as jobs for scuba divers, hotel staff and chefs as well.

 
Second in the list are administrative jobs and legal jobs. You can even consider the insurance industry and the medical field because there is a constant look out for doctors as well as the nurses here. Besides those, you can always look for jobs in the field of accountancy, engineering and management. Nassau happens to be the hub of many such job availabilities.

The government has always tried its best to shelter the local banking industry and local financial industry, which in turn generates a lot of job opportunities for the local people as well as expats. The Bahamian government is a little strict about immigration and only entertains those who are key employees of a company or are specialized in something that the locals are not. However, you will find the immigration process in the Bahamas is far less strict than that of other countries and popular destinations.

The population of the Bahamas is well spread out and resources in the country are fairly distributed. The cost of living in Bahamas is generally said to be a little higher than that of other countries given the cost of goods here. This is simply because most items need to be imported and thus come in levied with heavy taxes which in turn make them costlier. Automobiles, food and clothing are the basic three subjects in this particular category.

Medical and dental treatment is less expensive in comparison to the similar services provided in the United States. You will find that many government run hospitals, such as the Princess Margaret Hospital in the capital city or the Rand Hospital in the city of Freeport, offer medical services that are quite affordable however the waiting hours can be long given the number of people taking benefits from such services.

If you sit down and truly decide to move to the Bahamas, finding adequate housing can be a bit of an issue due to overcrowding, but it surely isn’t a big enough problem to scare one away. In case you are moving in after you have managed to find yourself a job in Bahamas then your employer can always help you out. Don’t ignore the rules in terms of work permits before moving in, it is a must have.

Bahamas is a nation that offers an unprecedented amount of comfort for expats, especially if money is not really a concern. With the right job and the right amount of money you can get anything you want here as long as you get in touch with the right people. However, just like with any destination, you can learn to live cheap and bask in the island lifestyle no matter what sort of budget you are working with.

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Photo By Ma1974

Most Americans and Canadians look forward to Thanksgiving and Christmas mainly because these are among the few times of the year they get to spend with their families. The combination of family reunions and delicious food makes these holidays truly enjoyable. Probably the only spoiler for the festive mood is the expensive cost of airfare around these days.

Fortunately, there are ways by which you can avoid spending too much and still manage to fly home to spend the holidays with your loved ones. Here are some tips that can help you save money on air travel during the holidays.

1. Book your Flight Early

You usually can get great discounts if you book a flight at the very last minute. In order to fill up all empty seats, airlines offer lower prices on tickets in the last few hours before a flight’s departure. Obviously, this is not going to be the case during holidays. In fact, it will be practically impossible to book a last-minute flight during these times. Make your holiday plans and book your flight as early as you can. This will give you more options and ensure that you do get home for the holidays. In addition, you can avail of early bird discounts that some airlines offer.

2. Wait for Airline Promos and Discounts

In some cases, early booking does not always mean better deals. For this reason, it pays to observe the airfare rates of the airline you are planning to fly with. You can monitor the ticket prices online and you can easily see if the prices are going down or not. Get your timing right and make an online booking when you see that the prices are not going to get any lower.

3. Volunteer to Get Bumped

During the holidays, it is very common for flights to be overbooked. In these situations, some passengers may have to be bumped to a later flight. Obviously, this can be a huge hassle but if you are not on a strict schedule, you can take this as an opportunity to save on airfare. You can volunteer to be bumped and negotiate for something in return. It can be a free first class upgrade or a nice discount on your next airfare. Most airlines will be very willing to accommodate whatever request you may have.

4. Consider Alternate Flights

You may be used to flying with certain airlines or arriving in certain airports but it wouldn’t hurt to check out other options. For example, there might be another flight that lands in a nearby airport. The drive from the airport may be longer but if the flight costs considerably less, that is certainly an option you should consider.

5. Arrive Early

The closer it is to the actual holiday, the more expensive the tickets get. So if you can fly home earlier, the better for you financially. Plus, this will give you a little more time with your family.

6. Bring your own Snacks

In the flurry of packing and rushing home during the holidays, few people take the time to pack food for the flight home. They end up buying expensive food on the plane or in the airport. To avoid this unnecessary expense, you can simply pack your own food and save a huge amount of money.

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Photo By Rene Ehrhardt

Thailand has long been one of the most popular Asian destinations for tourists from around the world, no doubt due to its beautiful countryside, friendly citizens and lovely beaches.

While the country of Thailand is renowned for its open spaces and beautiful scenery, it is known for its bustling city life as well.  The sprawling city of Bangkok is a riot of sights and sounds, with fast moving traffic, large international hotels, the best shops and gleaming office buildings.  The modern world is very much on display here, and the country of Thailand is a growing economic force on the horizon.

Travel Costs in Thailand

 
Budget minded tourists have known about Thailand for years, and this great vacation destination is one of the most inexpensive hot spots on the globe.  While the cities can be expensive, budget travelers can easily trim those costs by staying outside the city centers and exploring the countryside.

There are many wonderful villages to explore throughout the country, and the low cost only makes the country more charming and beautiful.  American and European visitors generally find that their money goes much further in Thailand than in other Asian countries, making it possible to enjoy a long and leisurely vacation at a very affordable cost.

Those wary of carrying large amounts of cash will find ATMs scattered throughout the country.  These modern conveniences are particularly widespread in the major cities and resort areas, but they are available in smaller towns and villages as well.

Credit cards are widely accepted in the large cities, at the country’s many shopping malls and at large hotel chains.  On the other hand most family run lodgings and many restaurants do not take plastic, so visitors should be sure to keep enough cash on hand.  Visitors should exchange most of their money for the local currency at one of the official money exchange centers, but it is a good idea to retain some U.S. or European currency for emergencies.

When to Travel to Thailand
Thailand is a land of many delights, but bad weather can ruin even the most delightful vacation.  Most people find that the best time for a visit to Thailand is between November and February.  During this time of year there is less rainfall, and less of the oppressive heat that often accompanies a Thai summer.

The peak tourist season runs from November to the end of March, so visitors going at that time should expect large crowds and long lines at major tourist sites.  Tourist traffic is also high in the months of July and August, but not as bad as the November to March peak season.  Those who want to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices may want to schedule their visits for April, May or June, when the lines are shorter and the sites are less crowded.

Most major airlines have regular flights in and out of Bangkok, so getting to Thailand should not be a problem. . There are many discounters offering steeply reduced tickets, but it is important to deal only with reputable firms.  Paying by credit card is always a good idea when booking travel, since this type of payment offers a wealth of consumer protections not available with other forms of payment.

Many tour operators offer all inclusive packages to Thailand, including airfare, hotel accommodations, travel within the country and even sightseeing excursions.  These package deals can be a good way to see the country, but independent minded travelers may be able to lower their cost by planning their own itineraries.

Once they have arrived, visitors have a wealth of choices for how to get around.  Many adventurous travelers choose to see the country by bike, and this can indeed be a good way to get around. Visitors who want to bring their own bikes into the country are free to do so, but the bikes must be registered with the customs agency upon arrival.  Failure to do so could result in a hefty duty when leaving the country.

Those who choose not to bring their own transportation in the form of a bike will find a number of alternatives at their disposal.  The country features an extensive system of inter-city buses, making it easy to see the countryside at leisure.  Large cities like Bangkok have their own extensive public transportation systems, making it easy to see the sights and get from place to place.  Public transportation is also a very affordable option, leaving visitors with plenty of spare cash to spend at the shops and restaurants throughout the country.

Renting a car is generally not recommended, since the roads in Thailand can be difficult to navigate for the uninitiated.  The rental process can also be cumbersome and expensive, so most visitors are advised to rely on a combination of public transportation and taxis.

No matter how they get around, many visitors find the country of Thailand so enchanting that they can’t wait to return.  Thailand has many repeat visitors who arrive year after year to take in the delightful sights, sounds and smells of this unique Asian travel destination.

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Photo By taiyofj

Remember how your mother always told you to look for the silver lining in every cloud? It sounded a little naive at the time, but in reality there always does seem to be a bright spot just when things look to be at their worst.

 
Sure money is tight and the economy is struggling. The good news is that you aren’t the only one dealing with financial woes and trying to save money. This means that major companies and businesses have to do whatever it takes to attract more business, and persuade savvy and budget travelers to once again pack their bags.

What does this mean for you right now? The price of a vacation is going down, airlines are having sales every month and even hotels are starting to become a little bit more affordable. Hotels.com recently completed and published a report stating that the average price of hotels in a number of cities is steadily on the decline.

 
So forget cramming into a hostel and forget spending your next vacation at home. Instead take a look these 10 cities where the price of hotel rooms is drastically on the decline.

 
#10- Find Cheap Hotel Rooms in Frankfurt, London, Vienna and Beijing

Each of these 4 vacation hotspots have had a 12 percent drop in hotel pricing recently. This places them all a couple notches higher on traveler’s wish lists. It also means that this just may be the right time to take in the aftermath of the Olympics in Beijing or try to grab a cup of tea with the Queen.

 
#9- Find Cheap Hotel Rooms in Riga, Latvia

Thanks to a recent 13 percent drop in the average cost of the city’s hotel rooms, Riga comes in at #9 on this list. While the city isn’t always atop every traveler’s list of dream vacation spots, it really should be. Riga is the home of delightful local beers, festivals, entertaining events and is adorned with all kinds of elegant and modern architecture.

 
#8- Find Cheap Hotel Rooms in Barcelona, Spain

On average, the price of hotel rooms in Barcelona has dropped a pretty impressive 14 percent. Sparkling sights, succulent cuisine, and an affordable view of the Mediterranean are just a few of the things you can find in Barcelona hotel rooms, and they are now more affordable than they have been in a long time.

#7- Find Cheap Hotel Rooms in Singapore

 
Singapore is the home of incredible nightlife and the place to be if you are looking for an exciting vacation. Looking for an inexpensive city within Singapore in particular? You may not find one. The entire country has seen an impressive 15% reduction in hotel pricing. What that means is more money to spend shopping on Orchard Road and a few extra Singapore Slings every night. Be sure to mind the hangover.

 
#6- Find Cheap Hotels in Las Vegas, Nevada

Now this isn’t to say that Las Vegas is necessarily the best place to go if you are looking to save money, but the city has seen a 17% decrease in hotel rates. In the end this probably means more money into the slot machines, but hey, that is more fun than spending all your cash on the hotel anyways. Everyone has to head to Vegas at least once, and it looks like right now may be the best time to bask in the glory that is Sin City.

#5- Find Cheap Hotels in Oslo, Norway

Oslo comes in at #5 on this list as it tied Las Vegas with a 17 percent drop in the cost of hotels. If the temptations within Vegas seem to be a little much for you then Oslo may be the perfect place to get away. It offers natural beauty and is the ideal spot for outdoor lovers, swimmers, cyclists and boaters.

 
You are sure to love laying your head down on a discount hotel bed after a long day spent in the great outdoors.

#4- Find Cheap Hotels in Marrakech, Morocco

Now some of you might be thinking,”excuse me…where”? Just because you haven’t heard of Marrakech doesn’t mean that it doesn’t offer the ideal vacation you might be looking for. Thanks to a 20% drop in hotel rates within this stunning city, Marrakech may just start quickly moving up on a number of travelers’ to do lists.

 
The city is crammed with African culture and is surrounded with stunning waterfalls, towering mountains, deep valleys, and crystal clear rivers which may have you never wanted to actually return to your hotel room. Good thing you found a discounted room.

 
#3- Find Cheap Hotels in Mexico City, Mexico

If you are looking for a vacation in a hot, exciting and popular destination then you are going to love the fact that Mexico City has seen its hotel rates drop by up to 23%. Tie that price drop in along with the hustle and bustle of the city, the exciting nightlife, the exotic flavours, and the affordable price of tequila, and you have the perfect getaway wrapped up into a neat little box.

#2- Find Cheap Hotels in Belfast, Northern Ireland

 
To be honest tourists really do not need any more reasons to visit Belfast, but now they do anyways. Hotel rates in the city have dropped by a staggering 29 per cent which means there really is no reason not to visit the heart of Edwardian architecture and the home to a number of medieval castles.

 
Now you can wrap yourself up in the history and folklore of Belfast for a fraction of the price.

#1- Find Cheap Hotels in  Moscow, Russia

The city that has seen the most significant decrease in hotel room pricing is Moscow. According to hotels.com the city has seen a 36% drop in hotel rates which means that you have more money to stock up on winter gloves, fur boots and vodka than ever before.

 
Everything else aside, Moscow really is overlooked by a lot of tourists and it shouldn’t be. Hopefully now that hotels are so affordable people will start to realize just how much there is to do in the constantly evolving and increasingly modern city.

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Photo By tiarescott

Always dreamed of a little pirate adventure? Want a boat that takes you where you want to go, when you want to go? Do you want to be the captain of your own ship? If you answered yes to any of these questions then Bareboating — renting a yacht, crew optional — is your perfect adventure vacation.

Bareboating yachts are generally found in the 30-60 foot range, and you can find them on certain Caribbean islands, the Mediterranean, and a few other warm-weather vacation spots outside the United States. Your bareboating fee pays for the rent of the boat for a week or three, insurance, and standard boat trappings. Depending on your needs, fuel, food, and a crew cost extra.

A Little Bareboating Preparation Goes a Long Way

Bareboating isn’t for everyone. You should be in reasonably good shape and have at least basic boating skills. Before trusting you with their yacht, a bareboat company will expect you to have shown some navigational ability. You will need to demonstrate that you can dock and anchor a boat as well as handle it under power to one of their company experts. If you can’t do this, most bareboat companies will offer to hire a crew and captain out to you for your bareboat experience who can teach you what you’ll need to know next time, and who will also act as expert guides to help you find the best possible spots for snorkeling, sightseeing, and just hanging out. If, however, you want to show up at your bareboating excursion ready to sail, call your local Coast Guard and ask them about boating classes. Most will be able to help you with the basics, and those who can’t will direct you to others who can.

Connect with People from All Over the World while Bareboating

Bareboating itself is thrilling, but an added bonus is being able to meet the yachting community in the area through which you are sailing. Yachters are a small group, more exclusive than many clubs, and they are often thrilled to meet other boating afficionados, share information, and chat over a glass of wine while watching a scarlet sunset. Not only can you make great friends, you may even be able to make excellent business contacts for after the vacation.

While you can rent bareboat yachts sight-unseen, it’s a bad idea unless you’re going through a travel agency you trust. Without care, you could wind up with a rusted scow with a bad engine and worse sails. Spend a few days in your port selecting just the right boat for you, and familiarize yourself with the ports of call and interesting sights while you’re there. If you aren’t a sailor, you can take a quick sailing course while you’re choosing your boat as well.

A Few Final Words of Advice for Bareboating

When you go on your bareboating excursion, there are a few things to keep in mind. Pack light, and bring some warm clothes as well as slickers. Make sure everyone going with you is as excited as you are, and understands that bareboats mean tight quarters and some fairly hard work. Finally, make sure you get the extra insurance. Even a small accident can add plenty to your bill at the end of the trip.

That said, there are few things as thrilling as sailing the sea by yourself, setting your own schedule, seeing the off-the-beaten-track sights that you’ve always dreamed of. With good planning and a great crew hand-picked from your closest family and friends, a bareboat excursion could be the trip of a lifetime — or the beginning of a whole new lifestyle.

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