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Unparalleled Access to 5 UNESCO Havens with Scott Dunn

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From majestic temples to dazzling natural wonders, the world features over a thousand UNESCO World Heritage Sites spread across 160 countries. Exclusively granted to places deemed to be of outstanding importance to humanity, travellers from all over make their way to these famed locations to catch a glimpse of the glory.

So if you’re looking to explore the ruins of lost civilizations, looking to uncover the secrets of nature reserves and national parks or want to examine ancient monuments up close, here is a short guide from Scott Dunn on how best to explore and experience five UNESCO-designated sites in style.

1. Kilim Karst Geoforest, Langkawi

Essentially an archipelago of 99 beautiful islands in the northwest corner of Malaysia, Langkawi is a nature lover’s paradise. Traverse through the Kilim Karst Geoforest, Southeast Asia’s first ever UNESCO Global Geopark systems, that is sprawling with mangrove swamps and dramatic limestone cliffs teeming with local wildlife including macaques, otters, fish eagles and tree crabs. All sorts of other adventures await just round the corner – wander through bat caves to admire the stalagmites and stalactites formations, take a cable car to the island’s peak and enjoy superb panoramic views from the iconic Sky Bridge or hop on a boat out to snorkel around the surrounding islands and reefs. If you wish to relax, there are sweeping coves of silvery sand and year-round balmy seas to enjoy this tropical island paradise. 

Where to stay: Stay at The Datai Langkawi, a luxurious beach resort nestled between lush rainforests and one of SouthEast Asia’s most breathtaking beaches. In fact, the Datai Bay’s idyllic white sand beach has been awarded by National Geographic as one of the Top 10 beaches worldwide. 

Take this trip: A Short Getaway to Langkawi

When to go: November to April

Need to know: Malaysia-Singapore VTL in place

2. Medina of Marrakech, Morocco

Founded almost a thousand years ago, Marrakech, which is also known as the city of luxury, contains Morocco’s largest souk, where getting lost in the winding labyrinth of the UNESCO-listed medina is half the fun. Vibrant, colourful and with a chaotic charm, this city is like no other. Featured in an episode of Inventing Anna, follow the footsteps of Anna Delvey and her friends as you embark on an exclusive private tour of Yves St Laurent’s magical Marrakech home. While most visitors can only see the gardens, we’ll be able to secure exclusive access for you into his actual home. After your colourful adventures in Marrakech, head towards the Atlantic coast of Morocco and visit Oualidia that boasts peaceful beaches and an 11 km stretch of lagoon. Here you can learn to surf in the calm waters of the lagoon or harvest and taste locally grown oysters.

Where to Stay: La Sultana is a little gem of a hotel located in Marrakech. It is a luxury historical hotel featuring authentic Riad style architecture with intricately sculpted patios and a unique panoramic rooftop terrace overlooking the ancient Tombs of the Saadian Kings and out across to the beautiful Atlas Mountains in the distance. While visiting the rooftop, don’t miss out on trying the ‘Cocktail Yves Saint Laurent in Majorelle’ that was created by the La Sultana team to celebrate the opening of the Yves Saint Laurent Museum in 2017.  

Take this trip: Perfect Pairings : Marrakech & Oualidia

When best to visit: March to May, and September to November

VTL Status: Non-VTL: General Travel Category

3. Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve, Canada

Be in awe of the UNESCO-designated Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve, one of the last remaining ancient temperate rainforests in the world. Within the dense forests, sparkling inlets and snow-capped mountain peaks, the sights at the Reserve are one to behold. From watching bears swiping salmon from streams, spotting humpback whales out at sea, kayaking down the river or simply enjoying the dramatic landscapes, there is plenty to see and do throughout the seasons. Pair your visit with a short leg over in Vancouver where you can  find gourmet food markets and a distinct fusion of cultures, which makes way for an enticing gastronomic scene. 

Where to Stay: A stay at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge is an assault on the senses. Set in a breathtaking location in the heart of the forest and within a stone’s throw of spectacular wildlife viewing, even arriving at the property is an adventure. Marvel over the stunning landscapes from a bird’s eye view on a 45 minute seaplane ride, before being transported by horse and cart to the heart of the resort. In the evenings, settle in by the fire with s’mores and stories of the day’s adventures. 

Take this trip: Ultimate West Coast Canada

When best to visit: June to September

VTL Status: Canada-Singapore VTL in place

4. Shrines and temples of Nikko, Japan

Spread across an expansive landscape in the Tochigi Prefecture, just north of Tokyo, the charming city of Nikko is a testament to one of the most important figures in Japan’s history and is home to an array of architectural and decorative masterpieces. A destination revered for its outstanding beauty and splendid architecture of its UNESCO-designated Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, here you can wander and admire the intricate carvings displayed on the grounds of the shrine, cross the ancient Shinkyo Bridge and marvel at the haunted lantern of the Futarasan-jin Shrine. You can also spend your days hiking through idyllic marshlands, visiting waterfalls that change colours with the seasons or make your way to the scenic Lake Chuzenji to catch spectacular views of Mount Nantai. Soak away any tiredness at one of the natural onsens and you may also catch a glimpse of some wild monkeys taking a dip. 

Where to Stay: Stay at the Ritz-Carlton Nikko, a pristine haven in the historic mountain region. Taking cues from its picturesque surroundings, graceful modernised Japanese design permeates throughout to bring the natural beauty of Nikko indoors. Guests can experience and immerse themselves in local culture through a variety of experiences from learning the Japanese skill of furoshiki wrapping to enjoying the sounds of drums and Japanese flute music at a sacred ceremonial dance. 

Take this trip: Scenic Nikko

When best to visit: October to first half of November

VTL Status: Non-VTL: General Travel Category

5. Val d’Orcia, Italy

Discover the cultural, gastronomic and scenic delights of Tuscany and its capital Florence. Scattered with villas, farmhouses and castles nestled deep in the heart of the countryside, with olive groves and vineyards across rolling hills. Cycle through the heart of the UNESCO-listed Val d’Orcia and admire the valley’s landscapes which was the subject of many Renaissance paintings, especially by the painters of the Scuola Senese, The Siena School, mentioned in the Val d’ Orcia’s UNESCO nomination. If you can, time your visit to coincide with Il Palio, and you make some time in Siena for the build up and see the actual race. A centuries-old tradition, rival parts of the city race their horses bareback around the beautiful Campo.

Where to Stay: Experience the Italian countryside way of life in true luxury at the Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco which offers luxurious suites and villas with private heated pools, exceptional cuisine and an array of outdoor activities all set against the magnificent backdrop of the Val d’Orcia. The property also has its own vineyards and winery onsite where guests can book tours and partake in tastings. 

Take this trip: Extraordinary Florence & Tuscany

When best to visit: June to September

VTL Status: Italy-Singapore VTL in place

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5 Tips to Help You Get Comfortable Driving in A Different Country

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Driving in a foreign country can be scary, even if it’s just for the day. If you’re planning on driving in a different country, there are some things you should know. You may not know the road rules, or the signs may be all in another language. Here are five helpful tips to remember when driving abroad so you’ll feel more comfortable and confident behind the wheel.

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Learn what different road signs mean

It’s important to know what the different road signs mean, especially if you’re driving in a country where English is not the primary language. When it comes to roads and traffic, there are international symbols that all drivers should be aware of. For example, a stop sign means “stop” or “arret” in French, and a yield sign is “cédez le passage“. Knowing what these symbols mean will help you feel more confident on a foreign country’s roads.

Not only do you need to know how to read the signs, but you also need to know what they mean.

Drive a car you are comfortable with 

If you’re used to driving a smaller car in the US for example, it would be best to rent a smaller car in France. If you’re used to driving a large SUV in the US, it would be best to rent an SUV when in France. This is because cars in Europe tend to be smaller and more compact than cars in America. The roads are also narrower and curvy, so it’s good to have a vehicle with enough width and power to manoeuvre these roads easily.

An excellent way to find an appropriate car is to hire a local outlet to know the correct type of car for the area, such as sydneyutehire.com.au. You can find a vehicle you are more comfortable with and withstand your activities.

Know speed limits and driving laws

Before getting in the car, familiarise yourself with speed limits and driving laws. Knowing the speed limit helps a lot when you’re driving in a foreign country because you know whether or not you’re going too fast. You might also want to learn some of the road signs in advance to help you read them when they come up.

Consider an advanced driving course.

Even if you’re a good driver, it’s always a good idea to brush up on your skills before driving abroad. The road rules can vary from country to country, and you may not be familiar with the signs or what they mean. Taking an advanced driving course can help you learn about any specific rules and signs so you’ll know what to do when you’re behind the wheel. Remember that speed limits can be in kilometres per hour instead of miles per hour, so if you haven’t taken a course on kilometres, now is a good time.

Stay in the slow lanes.

First, keep in the slow lane. This will prevent you from getting in trouble with cars that are going faster than you in the fast lane. It’s also a good idea to stay towards the centre of your lane when driving on a two-lane highway with a centre divider. When passing slower vehicles, use caution and only do so when it is safe to do so.

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3 Common Road Trip Hazards You Should Avoid

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Road trips are one of the ways many of us enjoy getting away from it all for a vacation. While they may seem simple, road trips can be fraught with hazards that can put your safety or the safety of others at risk.

What might seem like a harmless diversion can cause severe injury or death to others, making you need the services of diligent car accident lawyers. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the potential hazards as you drive to ensure that your road trip is as safe and carefree as possible. Here is a list of 3 common risks you should avoid on your next road trip.

A Toddler Climbing Out of A Car-seat

The problem is that the child feels confined in the car seat. As a toddler grows, it’s challenging to keep them in because they feel like they are suffocating. A toddler will attempt to climb out of the car seat, making it difficult for an adult to keep track of them.

To avoid this problem, you should stop your car every two hours and take your child out of the car seat for a few minutes. It allows the child to move around and get rid of excess energy. If you feel your child is old enough, you can also install a video game or DVD player in the back of your vehicle. It will allow the child to be more comfortable while still allowing them to be entertained.

Not Using The Proper Tire Pressure

Maintaining the proper tire pressure in your car is crucial because it helps keep your car safe on the road and prolongs its life. Too much or too little tire pressure can cause problems for your car.

For example, with too little air in your tires, they will wear more quickly and generate irregular wear patterns on the treads. Too much air pressure can cause accidents because it affects how well your vehicle can handle bumps in the road. To check your tire pressure, you should use a tire gauge.

Not Paying Attention To Road Signs

Many road accidents happen because drivers either miss or ignore the road signs. Driving while paying attention to the road signs is an excellent way to keep yourself and your loved ones safe and reduce your risk of crashing.

It’s important to always pay attention to what the road signs say and obey them. For example, if a sign indicates that you must turn left in coming up ahead, you should start slowing down and turn when it is time to do so. If you’re unsure, you can always pull over and recheck the signs.

Conclusion

Safe driving requires drivers to be aware of their surroundings and actively avoid any dangers. Road trip hazards can appear seemingly out of nowhere and put the safety of everyone in the car at risk. To reduce your risk of crashing and enjoying your vacation, you should remain alert and avoid taking unnecessary risks.

It is also essential to plan ahead of your road trip to avoid any potential hazards that may happen along the way. With a bit of foresight, you can make sure that your road trip is a safe and enjoyable one.

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How To Plan The Perfect Roadtrip

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Travelling has not been high on anyone’s to-do list over the last 18 months or so. But now, the world is starting to reopen again. We can’t travel the way that we used to but we can get out and about. One of the best ways to stretch your legs at the moment is by taking a road trip. Here are some ideas about how to plan the perfect road trip.

Know Where You are Going

As tempting as it is to throw caution to the wind, you still need to plan your trip a little bit. You can easily plan your journey out online and work out the best way to travel and the best places to stop along the way. This is important for a number of reasons. For one, it can help you plan out a timeframe and manage expectations about what you can do. For example, you could travel around a lot of Ireland in 7 days. In comparison, 7 days in Texas would be nothing. So, with this in mind, remember that a little bit of planning can go a long way.

Plan for the Unexpected

There is always a chance that something will break, a battery will die, or a GPS will go crazy. This is why you should always have a backup plan, some basic tools, and a paper copy of the map. You should try and plan for accidents and breakdowns. You can attempt to prevent breakdowns by servicing your car before you leave. As for accidents, you can be vigilant while driving, and if you have an accident, contact some top car accident attorneys afterwards.

Be Slightly Spontaneous

If you have made a plan, you might be tempted to stick to it no matter what happens. However, you should allow for a little bit of spontaneity. There is no point in driving down the road, seeing something wonderful that should be explored, and driving on because it is not on the list. When it comes to exploring, it pays to have some wriggle room. Even if you get to check it out briefly, you could add it to your must-visit list for the next road trip. And, if it makes you feel any better for changing the plan, some of the best memories are made when you go off-script.

Have Plenty of Space

When you are travelling, the space that you have can make a difference to the journey. If you have ever made a trans-Atlantic flight in economy seating, you will know what we are talking about. The same rule applies to a road trip. Don’t fill your car with unnecessary things because you can. Travel light and make sure that you have plenty of room to spread out. Plus, where else are you supposed to put all of your souvenirs if the car is jam-packed before you leave?

No Snacks

Ok, maybe some snacks, but lay off the sugar. Filling yourself full of sugar while you are driving can have some terrible effects on your stomach. The sugar and the motion can create a recipe for disaster. That last thing anyone needs is for someone to feel sick or throw up in the car. You should eat but it should be low in sugar and high in protein. Nuts and seeds are a great driving food that will keep you full and blood sugars low. So make sure you pack a big bag of healthy treats to keep your mind off the sweets.

Have a Budget

As part of your plan, you should make a budget. We are not including it in the plan section because this deserves a full entry of its own. Having a road trip budget is essential because, without it, you can be stranded. If you spend too much money, you could go into debt trying to put some fuel in your car to get home. You may end up going over your budget but if you have one in place, you could save yourself a lot of heartache and wallet worry.

Take Some Breaks

Driving all day can be tough and it is important to take regular breaks. Not only is this essential for your circulation, but it is also necessary to prevent accidents. Even professional heavy goods vehicle (HGV) drivers have to stop and take a break. Although you are not bound by the same rules, it is a good idea to keep them in mind when you are driving. Take regular breaks, rest, and don’t overdo it.

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Where Should You Stay When You Travel To Malaysia?

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Malaysia is a great place to travel to. With a rich history, a beautiful climate, and quick links to neighbouring countries Singapore and Thailand, it’s an excellent destination for anyone wanting to travel. 

When choosing somewhere to stay, your budget will be a big deciding factor. 

For those on a lower budget, hostels are a safe choice. These low-cost living spaces offer you a bed – and not too much else. But, if you are an adventurous person who likes to spend all day exploring, all you really need is a bed. 

For families wanting somewhere safe to bed down, with enough space for children, renting a house or apartment for the period of time you are there is the best way forward. When it comes to apartments, Malaysia offers two options – condominiums and serviced apartments. Condominiums provide full facilities, security, and parking. Serviced apartments offer the same, plus housekeeping facilities, bellboy services, and room service, just like a hotel. 

For those looking for more luxury, a penthouse, loft, or duplex can be a great choice. Penthouses are the top unit of a residential high-rise. For this reason, a penthouse will offer you beautiful views. They often take up the whole or half of the floor, affording you space and privacy. Plus, you get to feel super unique, as there is only one penthouse in any high-rise. Lofts and duplexes are similar but are often two-story living spaces in a high-rise. To visualize the difference between these housing forms, check out the infographic below.

Infographic Design By: PropertyGuru No. 1 Property Website
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Various Amenities and Hotels That You Can Visit in TAS, Australia

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Travel can significantly improve your health. From eliminating work pressures to relieving any stresses of illnesses that can affect your daily lives, not only are the lifestyle advantages numerous but also the medical ones. Click here to know more about the benefits of travelling and how it can improve your general wellbeing.

You can either remain seated in the workplace throughout the day and just let the day pass by, or you can opt for a weekend getaway. The latter can improve your health and quality of life. For some people, travelling abroad is an excellent cure for mental health problems, and it is considered a quick fix for some people because it makes them feel good, both physically and mentally. 

Venturing out more often will likely affect your psychological wellness, especially if you are not doing things outside of your comfort zone. Trust me: travel more, and your doctor and gym will be glad. 

Do not forget to connect or make a call with your general practitioner before leaving, as they may recommend you to take some vaccinations or medications, especially for destinations that might be riskier.

Going to Places Lets You Disconnect from Your Daily Life 

If we are stagnant at where we are right now, there will be no changes that we can see within ourselves. An example of this is when you are being glued to your desk, and your work seems to take centre stage in your life. Another is when your children are driving you nuts, or perhaps you need to multitask while fighting fire (hypothetically), and everyone in your friends and family circle is asking you for too much of your time.

It is advisable to take some time off, take a full breath and have the best time of your life through travelling. This is definitely a great way to relax and unwind.

Remember to pack light and always do some research to find out more about the attractions that are relevant to your itinerary. Always travel with a goal in mind so that you will create great memories on your trip. If you’re planning to fly, you should check what flights are available and remember to book your tickets early. 

Traveling Can Make You More Practical and Smarter 

Becoming accustomed to getting new words in a different language from yours each time you travel can enhance your brain capacity. It can help you connect with other people and understand their way of life.

Significantly more than “just” the dialects that you can learn from when you travel, journeying from various places can help you understand more about yourself. You may encounter situations that will unexpectedly test your cognitive thinking skills. We are certain that you will eventually build up a new set of abilities that you didn’t know that you have.

It Can Help You Understand Other Cultures 

The reason why we travel may vary, yet folks who are journeying constantly create empathy and a more reflective understanding of different cultures, ideologies, and societies. 

Being knowledgeable about a culture that is different from our own is essential to becoming a more rational and intelligent person. Also, you can think of it as an advantage when you mingle with others and build relationships.

Without a doubt, you can feel the excitement when you travel and try things that are considered new to you and falls outside of your comfort zone. You become more acquainted with more individuals from different walks of life and better comprehend their beliefs and principles in life. 

Here are some of the hotels and amenities you can visit in Tasmania, Australia:

Seaplane Experience with Your Loved One

There is only one seaplane operation in Tasmania, and it is based in the heart of Hobart’s trendy waterfront. It offers many scenic flights, luxury transfers from one place to another, and custom charters that you can avail of with a great effect of letting you feel recharged, inspired, happy, enriched, and connected again with your inner self.

As we all know, Tasmania is known for its natural landscapes and spectacular areas that you can explore with family and friends. Whether in the land, air, or water, there are various options and rare opportunities to experience this remarkable island and some spectacular locations.

Many travel companies and local guides take great pride in showing off their beautiful island to visitors and residents alike. It is indeed a great experience that will provide tourists with an experience that they will never forget.

Luxury Hotels in Hobart

Hotel options may vary depending on your budget and needs. They usually accommodate groups, families, and even couples. One of the best hotels you can try is the MACq 01 Hotel Hobart TAS; it has great reviews, and tourists also recommend this place. Always remember to check out the best room rate for you and your loved ones.

E-Bike Adventure

Tasmanian E-bike Adventures’ goal is to provide guests and tourists with an exceptional and one-of-a-kind encounter with the nature and wilderness in Tasmania. Tourists can book private tours, and they can also customize the tours based on their needs and preferences.

This e-bike experience will let tourists become sportier. Exploring this type of activity helps tourists gain riding confidence with e-bike technology, and it is also a great way to promote a healthy and more active lifestyle.

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Location De Voiture in Europe

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You may want a lot of convenience and freedom whenever you travel to another country, which is fine. Europe is a prominent place, and you should explore the areas at your own pace. You can take lots of pictures, stopover the places where you will reach easier with the help of private transportation, and more.

Renting has its own advantages and knowing the differences will save you money and time. You won’t even have to rush to go inside the trains, and not sharing a ride with other people can be a relief, especially for those who are keeping safety protocols in mind.

How to Rent a Car

1. Choose the Right Company

There are major companies that are well-known in Europe. You can compare their prices by visiting Comparatiflocationdevoiture.fr/ and see which ones will give you the best offer. I’m sure you may have heard about Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, and others.

The best way to go is to ensure that you book in advance. When it comes to the planning stages of your vacation, look for the ones that can give you a car on the actual date of your trip and give you the best rates. It may take a lot of time when it comes to comparison, and you may probably have enough already on your schedule to look over them.

What you can do is to visit comparison sites on a particular date and see the offers. If you don’t have the time for comparisons, you can always check those that can provide you with the most excellent deals that are available. This is similar to using comparison websites that deal with flights.

2. Factors that Affect the Price

Several factors will affect the price, such as the number of tourists, the location, and more. You need to set a rental period and the overall size of the car that you would want to get for your friends or the entire family.

Automatic and Manual

Many cars in Europe have manual rather than automatic. This is because of several reasons like smaller cars, more expensive fuel, and narrow roads. Many have found that manual transmission is more responsive and comfortable than an automatic one. 

This means you may have to pay 50% more when you choose the automatic. You can read more about automatic transmission when you click here. This can depend on the car rental company, manufacturer, and the country, but you may expect to budget more for this.

Different Drop-offs and Pick-ups

It can make sense to rent a car in Paris and drop it in another place in many situations. You may decide to go to pick-up something in Nice, go through Provence or French Riviera, then drop the car when you arrive in Avignon.

This way, you’ll have more flexibility, time, gas, and lesser unnecessary backtracks. However, convenience may come at an additional price, and there are always drop-off fees that you should be prepared for. The costs can range from 100 Euros to 300 Euros, and it can be more, especially if you’re going from one country to another. Crossing borders is possible as long as you get in touch with a company with plenty of networks in other countries. 

Train Station or Airport Pick-Ups

It’s always convenient to get pick-up at airports or train stations so that you can proceed to your destination without a hitch. However, they do come at a price. The charges can be up to 100 Euros per country, and when it comes to saving money, you may want to go further in town and sign papers at the dealers’ shops themselves.

With this said, the rent on the train stations or airports may have several advantages that you may want to know. For one, the comfort and convenience of knowing that you have a transport service that you can use to drive to your hotel can be worth it. Many facilities are also larger and offer more services when you’re renting at train stations and airports.

A higher volume of cars is there so you won’t have to spend hours stuck and waiting for an available one. Another is that the shops don’t usually operate 24/7 or during holidays. You shouldn’t usually expect a drop-off or pick-up before 8 in the morning or past 5 in the afternoon in many instances. It’s always up to you if the convenience will be worth the money, especially if the trip will take you a long time.

Crossing Borders

There are fees that you need to pay when crossing certain countries. Generally, Western Europe won’t have much of an issue when you go to the borders. However, the non-EU countries may cost you about 15 to 100 Euros in fees.

3. No Permission to Drive in Other Countries

Many companies may have specific terms and conditions that you’re not allowed to drive in other countries when you are in France. Some of these nations on the list may include Montenegro, Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Albania. The rules are constantly changing, so it’s better to ask them in particular what you are allowed and not allowed to do.

4. International Drivers’ Permit is a Must

When you try to pick up your car, the company will confirm that you have a valid drivers’ license, credit card, passport, and booking number. They will also ask to see your International Drivers Permit that can be translated into almost ten languages. This card will contain your photograph, drivers’ information, and name. You can get this through the AAA for a specific amount.

It’s important to know that the IDP will not replace your passport or original drivers’ license. It’s just a supplementation that is required, especially when you are crossing borders. The countries that may require these are Italy, Germany, Slovenia, Greece, Spain, Hungary, Poland, and more. It may not be mandatory to get an IDP when you first pick-up the vehicle that you’ll be driving, but it’s still the best idea if you can obtain one for emergency purposes.

5. About a Vignette

Vignettes are stickers that you can attach to the windshield, and they are indications that you have already paid for the highway taxes. If your car rental company is located in a country that requires you to have a vignette, you won’t have any issues.

Countries that require a vignette purchase include Bulgaria, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Switzerland, Romania, and Hungary. These are usually sold in nearby gas stations, and they can vary from 3 to 10 Euros depending on the country. There could be a fine of 60 Euros or more if you fail to show a vignette.

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Why A Caravan Is The Ultimate Millennial Purchase

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Ever heard of #vanlife? The movement is sweeping the globe with young people, priced out of the housing market, trading in the traditional goals of owning a home with a white picket fence for the wanderlust of life on the road.

Converting old school busses, vans, trailers or revamping caravans these young people are living on the road and you’ve never seen a caravan look this cool. With fully equipped kitchens, beds, living rooms and, we’ll level with you, a borderline insane amount of fairy lights – these young people have redefined the game. 

So, what’s driving these young people to life on the road rather than a traditional home?

Ever-Rising Rent

The price of rent to live in cities has been constantly on the rise with the average rental price in Sydney coming in at $540 per week. These exorbitantly high prices combined with unemployment and under-employment crisis that see many young people either without work or having to work multiple jobs to afford to pay rent, leaving very little behind for living expenses or savings. The price of rent has seen many young people living with their parents for longer, moving out of the cities or turning to other options like vans. 

Cheaper Costs

Not having to pay rent is a major tick in the plus-column when it comes to the choice between vanlife and city life. As most people in the vanlife community will tell you, the biggest cost when it comes to living in a van is buying the van itself and the subsequent renovations. Luckily, the actual vehicles are often cheaper than you might think. Head to Grays and find the van, caravan or disused school bus perhaps that is ready to be converted into your dream home.

Love of the Open Road

As Jack Keroac would tell you, there’s something romantic about the open road. Whether they were inspired to this nomadic lifestyle like Keroac in On The Road, enchanted by the idea that “there was nowhere to go but everywhere” and that all they “needed was a wheel in his hand and four on the road,” or they just felt a pull towards a life on the move, with no fixed address – the whole thing is incredibly romantic. With so many young people spending weeks and months backpacking, this lifestyle is not foreign to them but, it is far more cost effective! 

Freedom

For many young people the main draw of vanlife is the freedom of not being tied down to one place, one lease, one job. On top of the extortionate rents in many major Australian cities another thing stopping young people from wanting to sign year long leases is the fact that they have plans to travel for a few months and that dream is financially untenable if they have to be paying for rent whilst also paying to accommodation, flights and everything else that comes with travelling. 

The vanlife lifestyle is often described as perfect for people who want to ‘own less and experience more.’ Married couples like the Armstrongs, the duo behind the popular account Mavis The Airstream said they turned to vanlife when they were tired of the monotony of everyday 9-5 jobs and city life. They now run the popular blog giving advice on van renovations and hacks to others in the community From single people, to young couples, married folk like the Armstrongs, even parents with kids have turned to vanlife, and the freedom is unbeatable!

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Summer Jobs in Ibiza – Tips for Working in Ibiza Next Summer

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If you love summertime and are looking for your next destination, then Ibiza in Spain can be the right place for you. Ibiza is a Spanish island located in the Mediterranean Sea, and it’s famous for its nightlife scenes. This is the perfect place for dance and club lovers to spend one memorable summer if you are in a gap year or before accepting a full-time job role.

Partygoers who have experienced the nightlife in Ibiza describe the city as a legendary one with many opportunities for both students and immigrants. Seasons change, and with it comes a lot of job openings that can allow you to stay in this beautiful city while earning at the same time.

Tourists also love the fantastic beaches and the crystal-clear turquoise waters, and there is no shortage of entertainment in Ibiza. Since the city is the third-largest area in the Balearic Islands, it has been dotted with several clubs like the Eden, Space, and Privilege that are also famous throughout Europe.

For those who want to take a break from partying, there are whitewashed villages and unspoiled sceneries that are great for resting. The fine sandy beaches and historical attractions make this place an idyllic one to live in.

How to Earn While Living in Ibiza?

Summer provides plenty of job opportunities but bear in mind that there are also many other people who are coming to the islands at this time of the year. Hence, it’s essential to connect with companies that offer summer jobs in Ibiza first. Visit their careers’ pages and see the available vacancies and requirements. Thereafter, apply for vacancies that best matches your skills and personality.

PR for Disco Bars and Clubs

Ibiza and parties often go hand in hand, and public relations is very important as a result. Public relations are essential since the people on it are the ones who advertise about the available night outs and discounted drinks. 

Some of the required tasks are to attract tourists, talk with people, give them flyers, put up colorful posters, and be a social butterfly overall. What you need for this kind of job is a lot of stamina, and at the start of the season, the more your customers are, the larger the pay will be, but this, of course, still depends on the club.

Sell Tickets for Exclusive Memberships and Parties

The job is rather similar to PR, and it’s essential that you are outspoken and sociable when you sell the tickets. Many booths dot Playa d’en Bossa and San Antonio, and you could be assigned to one of them. The job is to explain each party’s interesting highlights, bring tourists to your booths, and keep an open eye to what’s happening around.

Waiters and Waitresses

Working in a bar is probably the most popular job in Ibiza. Over 3 million tourists visit each year, and the cafes, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs are often the busiest in summer. More often than not, there’s a very high turnover of employees in these industries. 

However, do note that it can be quite challenging to apply for these jobs even before the summer has officially started. One very helpful tip is to apply early. You can also find more tips on this site here: https://m.kidshealth.org/AllChildrens/en/teens/summer-job.html?WT.ac=m-t-ra.

Sports at the Beach

Many people like to hire nets and equipment to play beach volleyball. Others wanted to go jet skiing, diving, and water skiing. With these kinds of sports, you can provide the tourists with the equipment they need or work alongside the coach and provide support. 

Most companies who are running sports businesses in Ibiza may require you to have the right qualifications, so it’s better to check first before applying. You can start with Ocean Mania if you love wheels and karting.

Aside from the ones mentioned above; hotels and serviced apartments can also offer you accommodation and provide you with an income source while staying in Ibiza. You might also get free passes to nightclubs and other freebies while working.

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Where to Go and What to Do in Singapore During This Pandemic?

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This time last year, we were having a holiday in New Zealand and we really enjoyed the experience so much that we hope to visit again.

With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it looks like leisure travel is not going to happen anytime soon, and we hope that all of us (globally) will get through this tough time together.

Since travelling out of the country is not possible at this moment in time, the next best option is to check out what is available in Singapore for us to revisit. Although Singapore is not that big a country (in fact, we are smaller than Hong Kong), there are still lots of things that one can do in Singapore.

Whether you are a thrill-seeker, a nature lover or a foodie; there’s bound to be something that you can do in Singapore.

Thrill-Seeker

Image Credits: Universal Studios Singapore

Universal Studios Singapore is opened for all thrill-seekers and if you need to get some adrenaline pumping, this is the place to go and if that’s not enough, you can head over to AJ Hackett Sentosa to do a Bungy jump.

Nature Lover

There are many green spaces in Singapore that you can explore and if you are up for a challenge, embark on the 36km Coast-to-Coast trail! If you prefer to just chill, grab your beach towel and head to the beach for a simple and relaxing day. You can even organise a simple beach picnic with your family and friends.

Speaking of beach towel, we recently got one from Tesalate and we really love it! There are more than 40 different prints and designs and you get a 10% discount off your first order when you join their newsletter!

Glamping @ Home

We got the, ‘Into The Wild’ design and seriously, the 1.6 m by 0.8 m full-sized beach towel can comfortably fit 3 persons and since we miss glamping out in the wild, we decided to glamp at home.

If you are looking for an ultra-absorbent and compact full-sized beach towel, you should consider getting it from Tesalate.

Foodie

Brunch @ Lola’s Cafe

Singapore is a melting pot of cultures and you can find some of the world’s best cuisines here. Whether it is Indonesian, French, Japanese, Thai, Indian, Chinese, Italian or Spanish food; there are lots of options available for all sorts of budget.

Got any other places or activities to recommend? Share them with us in the comments section below!

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