Travel Packing Tips

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Okay folks, on popular demand I will provide you guys with travel tips for packing luggage. Girls listen-up, packing light is the motto.

Because most airline companies only allow about 40lbs worth of suitcase weight per 2 weeks of travel, packing light is key especially if you are traveling on a budget because overweight luggage costs a fortune, $10 per extra pound on average. yup, it's a trap you don't want to get caught in.

First, it's important to mention that all liquid products, of any kind, are now required to be checked-in and are no longer permitted aboard the aircraft. Nonetheless, bottles of sunscreen and moisturizers are definitely a must and although they do tend to be heavy, you can't travel without them. For more information on what is and isn't permitted on air crafts please consult Transport Canada or The Transportation Security Administration for the US.

Packing 101

1. As Previously mentioned, the first thing you want to make sure you have inside your suitcase if vacationing south are sunscreens. Yes more than just one bottle. I recommend that you bring different levels of protection as well as aloe based sunburn relief moisturizers. Personally, I start off my vacation using 30 sunblock gradually decreasing to about a 15 and for sunburns there's nothing like Hawaiian Tropic's Sunburn Relief.



2. Do not pack to many clothing items! It doesn't matter if you stay for a week or two, you won't be wearing most of it. I do however, highly recommend that you bring a couple light dresses and for men some nice trousers and shirts for evening wear. Other than that, a few tank tops and shorts, 2-3 bathing suits, flip-flops and you're set.



3. Sweaters. Some evenings and nights can get cold and too often we forget to pack cold weather items like jackets and sweaters but from experience at least one warm sweater and/or jacket is a must. This provides great comfort on those frigid summer nights and it's also part of traveling and being prepared for the unexpected.



4. Do not pack hairdryers, gadgets like lap-tops, DVD players, speakers, valuable jewelery or anything that has great monetary or sentimental value or is unnecessary. anything can happen to luggage, from loss to theft and/or damage so leave behind things that you aren't prepared to give-up and that simply take-up too much room.



5. Pack some snacks. I never leave without a couple bags of chips in my luggage. This tip isn't just great for packing but for saving money as well. Hotel stores and boutiques charge a fortune for snacks and goodies so I bring my own. This way, whenever I miss the food from home, I can always dig into my luggage and rejoice myself with a little treat. This is optional of course but it might come handy.



6. Pack for the unexpected. A lot of things can happen on vacation and you want to make sure you are prepared. Make sure you have basic first aid items packed in your luggage like band-aids, disinfectants like peroxide, some anti-constipation medication because changing food habits can have less than comfortable consequences, allergy medications, headache relief, insect repellent and a good muscle and joint ointment since certain activities can leave the body feeling sore and weak.



7. Last but not least, packing light has it's benefits. Upon returning, remember that you need to pack your gifts and souvenirs and those can be heavy. Booze, cigarettes, these you are allowed to bring home with you in certain amounts but they can take-up lots of luggage space so packing light to begin with will allow you to bring home much more and at those prices, you'll want to bring back plenty!

There's no secret to packing, just being conscientious of what you are actually going to use is a big step towards packing light. If you're like me, you might need to pack, revise, pack, revise, a couple times before you're actually satisfied but keep in mind that it's vacation and comfort is key! For more packing tips check-out this great sight that provides information on safe packing and regulation appropriate packing and remember, don't worry be happy!!

Travel Agent VS. Booking Online

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When it comes to finding the perfect vacation at the perfect price, is it better to book through a travel agent or simply doing it yourself online? Well, to this question there isn't a perfect answer but to help you make your own decision, here are a few things to think about.

What Are Your Expectations?

If you are looking for a vacation package suited specifically to your needs than a travel agent is your best option.

Travel agents have access to a ton of resources that aren't necessarily available to the general public and for this reason, travel agents are best equipped to help you plan a vacation that caters to your needs.

Travel agents are also armed with a ton of facts and information about every destination worldwide which allows them to know where it's sunny, hot, cheap, busy for every destination thus reducing the risk of booking a rainy, or over crowded or cold vacation you might regret.

Do You Have Specific Needs?

If you are a picky eater or can't stay out in the sun too long or for whatever reason need some special care and attention, seeking a travel agent would be best. Again, they can help you find the vacation that will satisfy your special needs and cater to your expectations.

The thing is, certain destinations are known for great food and beaches while others are known for the opposite, consulting a travel agent will allow you to find what you're looking for. You deserve an awesome vacation after all, you've been working hard trying to save-up for this so make sure it's all what it's cracked-up to be and using a travel agent will only be more reassuring.

Are Travel Agents More Expensive Than Booking On Your Own?

No. Actually, the good thing about travel agents is that most are not on commission and therefore have your best interest at heart. Plus, travel agents like a challenge and will work with the budget you provide them with. This is key because with little money, they can find great deals and bargains that we do not have access to and in turn, provide you with an outstanding vacation for less!

I Want To Book On My Own

That's fine and you can still find awesome deals but remember the rule of thumbs, patience, determination, perseverance and lots of research! If items like food, hotel amenities, luxury, beaches, weather, quietness and children aren't going to bother you, than perhaps booking on your own is a better option. Of course, booking on your own allows greater freedom on departure dates, times of travel and destination and can be just as rewarding.

The Truth About It All

The bottom line is, what are you looking for and what do you expect from your vacation? Expectation is everything and there's nothing worst than spending a huge chunk of cash on a disappointing vacation. Do both, research on your own and consult with an agent. You are not binded to the agent and you can decide last minute not to use their services. Travel agents are there to help but there is no contractual agreement between both parties so nothing is stopping you from simply doing both.

Here's a list of travel agencies for you to consult and help you book your next dream vacation!

1. clubvoyages.com This is Transat Holidays travel agency and they are located just about everywhere in Canada.



2. Voyages Les Ailes D'or Inc. This is the travel agency I use. Travel expert, Johanne Germain has over 25 years experience and is always happy to work with my challenging budget. See what she has to say about traveling on a budget on my previous post.



3. CAA Voyages CAA Quebec is a local, Quebec establishment that offers transportation insurance and so much more. What's great about them is that if you have a membership, you can enjoy unique discounts and benefit from great deals, bargains and savings!
   

For more information consult your local Yellow Pages where you'll find travel agencies worldwide.

How To Save Money On Vacation!

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Finding the perfect vacation package that best suits your interests and expectations at discount prices can be a daunting task. There are however, some fast and easy tricks that can help you save big bucks while on your vacation that don't require a lot of planning and can be lots of fun too!

Excursions

Excursions are usually offered on every resort. These are adventure filled trips that allow tourists to discover the country first hand and learn about various local products, sights and attractions.

Although fun and incredibly interesting, these excursions can also be very expensive! The adventure ones like snorkeling, diving, swimming with dolphins, national parks, deep sea fishing and catamaran cruises tend to be the most expensive ranging from $80-$140 per day, per person! If you are really adamant about taking part on one of these excursions, perhaps opt for a half day instead of a full one where possible, or choose less expensive, less elaborate excursions like the dune buggies, which offers great sight seeing at much more affordable prices.

Resort VS. Local Markets

When it comes to shopping, avoid shopping on the resort. The hotel stores and boutiques will definitely charge more on local products like booze and cigars than the local markets. Everything on hotel premises will be over priced therefore, going a little bit out of your way to find local tourist markets will not only be a great opportunity to venture out in the city but also to find great, unique local products at amazing prices!

Ask your hotel management where the closest market is. Usually, these markets are situated right next to the resort or at least in very close proximity because after all, they do cater mostly to tourists.

Local markets are also great fun. You never want to buy anything at asking price. The great thing about these markets is that merchants actually expect you to bargain and are happy to negotiate fiercely with you. Make it into a competition and see who can find the most for the least. An extra bonus is that to lure you into their shop, the merchants often offer free incentives like beaded jewelry, cigarettes, cigars and if you're really lucky a miniature bottle of local booze! Remember, courtesy and politeness are always your best assets.

Also, by shopping locally, you are in fact encouraging the local economy and helping locals profit from the tourism industry directly and that's important. Being a good tourist is about being conscientious and aiding the country in it's development. For more information, check-out this site where you will find a list of products available as well as fun tricks and tips on how to bargain and negotiate.

Small Stuff
There are plenty of small things you can do that will save you cash on vacation.

For example, I always bring a small amount of snacks in my luggage so that whenever I become bored with the food, I have a little taste of home with me. This also helps avoid having to buy goodies at the hotel boutique where the average cost of a bag of chips is about $10 US.

Avoid buying pictures taken by resort photographers as they tend to be costly, from about $15-$40 US per picture.

Try to pick activities that are offered for free versus activities that are offered at a cost. Pick non-motorized aquatic sports rather than motorized which require payment.

Last but not least, be easy on the tips. Tipping is good and you should definitely tip but don't over do it. $5-$10 bucks daily should be more than enough!

With A Global Economic Crisis, What Can Travelers Expect in 2009? Johanne Germain, Travel Agent, Explains In An Exclusive Interview!

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With a global financial crisis, what can we expect travel wise for the upcoming year? Well, as some businesses continue to close, one industry seems to be making the most out of the worst.

The travel industry is booming right now, offering packages and flights at some of the lowest rates ever! This crisis might have it's perks after all, if money isn't an issue for you right now, it's time to make your traveling dreams come true!

Where is Everyone Going?

Whether it be Europe or popular sun destinations, the prices of most vacations are so low that every destination of choice becomes alluring. Europe, once very expensive because of the Euro and flagged as a money pit, is not only becoming one of the top destinations of 2009 but a much affordable one as well.

As this article points out, travelers are faced with a huge range of exciting and cheap travel opportunities worldwide right now and perhaps for those who can afford it, the ideal time has come to make those travel plans.

To satisfy my own curiosity, I recently sat down with Johanne Germain, a travel agent at Voyages Les Ailes D'Or Inc., to talk about how the current global crisis is affecting travelers.

Always keeping my readers in mind, I also asked her to share some of her tricks and tips on how to find cheap travel deals as well as her pick for the hottest destinations of 2009.

Johanne confirms the trend, Europe is back on the go-to list and seriously gaining in popularity. Below, you will be able to view the entire interview with Johanne and find out what 2009 has in store for you!

Punta Cana: A Must See Destination

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Today's post is all about Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Why Punta Cana?

Why not? This destination is hot, hot, hot right now as it should be. It's beautiful, nice and hot practically year round, the vegetation is dense and lucious and absolutely gorgeous, it's fairly affordable and it has so much to offer and so many things to do that one week often doesn't feel like enough. Punta Cana will blow your mind away and have you talking and dreaming about it for a long time.



So Much To Offer

Punta Cana is one of those destinations that the entire family can enjoy because there's so much to do. Check-out these excursions, there's something for everyone! Snorkelers and divers, Punta Cana is your paradise! Punta Cana boasts some of the world's most beautiful reefs and is truly a go-to destination for all sorts of water sports.

How Much Is It?

It really depends, for the cheap traveler, Punta Cana can seem pricey, ranging anywhere from $900 to $1600 for one week all-inclusive but in many cases it's worth it.

You can always choose to book a 3 star resort where you are guaranteed to save but might have to sacrifice some luxury. As I've mentioned in previous blogs, cheap travelers cannot be picky travelers although you do want to get at least what you pay for.

Punta Cana, although expensive, is a great destination because it offers everything Caribbean islands should but at much more affordable prices than say Barbados or the Canary Islands.

It's My Favorite Vacation Destination

Punta Cana is by far my number one spot for many reasons. The food is great, the hotels are great, clean, friendly service, the beaches are breathtaking and the people are just so genuinely nice which is always pleasant!

I love Punta Cana and thought I would share my love for this destination with you guys. Keep checking the websites and Travel Zoo for price information. I have noticed the prices for this destination fluctuating a lot recently so hey, that means a cheap package is right around the corner so ready, get set and let's go!

Working Abroad

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Since writing about backpacking, many of you have asked me to write about working abroad. Your wishes are my commands! Working abroad is a great way of traveling while making some cash, it's all about mixing work and pleasure and for many, that's a recipe for success. Not to mention that working abroad can open many unexpected doors and can result in a major career boost!

Getting A Job

It is preferable that you land a job before departing. This will significantly decrease your level of stress and anxiety and will let you know what to expect upon arriving.

There are great programs like SWAP that can help you find a job abroad amongst their 12 possible destinations. SWAP is a Canadian program open to Canadians only. They are the leading force behind the increasing numbers of youths and young professionals working outside of Canada and they offer continuous support and services throughout your stay.

You can also check-out job banks like Monster.ca which offers a huge range of opportunities abroad for travelers of all ages and backgrounds. Unlike SWAP however, monster.ca does not provide any additional help other than finding you a job. It does not provide any follow-up or extra support once in the country of choice.

Room & Board

Another great way of working abroad is finding places that include housing and food as well as a job. This allows you to save so much money and it provides you the freedom of job hopping. Most of these places offer temporary work, so you can work a little and travel a little going from one job to another. These job opportunities are relatively rare but this site can help you find what you're looking for.

Pros and Cons of Working Abroad

1. It's cheap and it allows you to travel for lengthy periods without going broke.



2. It requires a lot of preparation and it can be time consuming at first.



3. It's a great way to jump-start your career and create important contacts. Working in a foreign country can be enriching and challenging all at once.



4. Working abroad can be very demanding! Finding housing, a job, getting around in a different country, learning the language, the customs and traditions, making friends, these all take some time and it can all get discouraging.



5. You're taking part in something unique and exciting. Programs like SWAP really help you make the most out of your trip and offers great, continuous help so that you don't feel alone and or abandoned in a foreign country.



6. It's worth a shot. You've got nothing to lose but your job. If you're not happy and things are just not panning out, it's all good, pack your bags and come back home...at least you'll have tried.

Still Want More Info or Have Questions, Doubts?

It's difficult for me to cover everything working abroad entitles but please consult the following websites. There, you'll find answers to most of your questions and perhaps even start the entire process. The 2 websites have everything you need to know about working abroad. Always remember, be safe, be cheap and enjoy!!

Information Websites

1. Service Canada



2. The Big Guide to Living and Working Overseas

Backpacking 101

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With summer around the corner I thought I would dedicate this blog to all the backpackers gearing-up for a season of cheap travel. When traveling over a period of several months, backpacking is probably your best and cheapest option however, backpacking is an adventure and like every other adventure, preparation is key. So here it is, the tricks and tips all backpackers should know before and during their travels.

Packing

It is highly recommended that you pack light. A small backpack is usually ideal. Although it doesn't hold much, you also don't lose much in case of theft or loss. Smaller bags also help avoid checking-in luggage at the airport which can easily get lost or damaged. Plus, smaller bags offer more protection and draw less attention to you. Check out this great site for more information on how to pack light and why it's going to make all the difference.

Personal Documents

When traveling the world, your personal documents are the only proof of existence you have so hold on to them with dear life! Before you begin your adventure, you must have all your documents in place.These include your Passport, Birth Certificate, Travel Visa, Travel Insurance and of course your Medicare card. To make sure that you always have a copy of your documents, it is recommended that you scan them before leaving and send them to your e-mail that way, if anything happens, you always have a copy with you.

Sleeping Arrangements

Well, hostels are probably your best bet. They are located in just about every city in the world and most offer meal services, cleaning facilities, washer/dryer and they also provide great local information. It's also a great place to meet fellow travelers and get the ins and outs of the city itself.This site allows you to book your hostel from anywhere to anywhere in the world and it has every hostel listing worldwide.

Cutting Costs

Cutting costs while backpacking is crucial! Several options are available to backpackers to help them along their adventure. Investing in an International Student Identity Card(ISIC) would be a good bet as it offers discounts on hostels, transportation and other travel services. Another good card to have is the Youth Hostel Association(YHA)Member Card and the VIP Backpackers Card both of which are available to travelers of all ages. These cards offer discounts on hostels, in certain food establishments as well as attractions and other tourist related activities.

Keeping all the above information in mind, I would like to wish all backpackers an adventure filled, safe and cheap season to come. After all, traveling is all about meeting new people, embarking on an unforgettable journey and creating unique and enriching experiences, backpacking is just another way of doing just that. Cheers Everyone!