Top Places To Explore In The World

How to save money for travelling

There is a common misconception that only the super-rich can afford to travel the world. However, this notion has been shattered time and again by famous travellers of our generation. Many young people today can tour the world despite not having much wealth. If you are planning to join other travellers in visiting beautiful places around the world and experiencing different cultures, you are doing the right thing by reading this article. Our lofts guy is very keen on saving money whilst travelling www.encompasslofts.com. Here are some proven ways to save money for travelling.

Know your budget
Create a budget and stick to it. Find out how much money you might need for the journey and start saving. According to Matthew Karsten, a traveler and a blogger, you need about $9,000 to travel the world for six months while spending $50 per day, roughly 7,300 pounds. You will need to focus on reducing your expenses and increasing your savings to save enough money for the flights, accommodation, transport, and food expenses. Once you know how much you are trying to save, it will motivate you to change your spending habits.

Cancel subscriptions for services you rarely use
The advent of the internet brought with it many ways of doing business. Because of this, subscriptions have become a normal part of our lives. Sometimes you may feel as if life would be boring without the various subscriptions you have. You might wonder how we survived before the internet permeated all aspects of our lives. The truth is that your life would be just fine without some of the unnecessary subscriptions you are paying.

Outline all your subscriptions and give them an honest analysis. Do you need all of them? Maybe you subscribed to a media newsletter, but you rarely find time to read the news. It could be a gym subscription, and you only go to the gym about four times a month. Cancel the subscription and look for alternative exercise methods, such as running or watching workout routines online and doing them from home. You can also cancel the Cable TV and Netflix subscription and read instead or pay for the one you watch the most.

Save on energy
Try your best to reduce your water, gas, and electricity bills. Shop around and see if there are cheaper energy suppliers. Switch suppliers as soon as your present contract ends. Use LED bulbs since they consume less energy than traditional ones. You can also spend less time in the shower and shut down your computer at night when you are going to sleep. Remember to unplug all other electrical appliances when you are not using them. Also, turn off lights when you are not in a room or when you are not around. Additionally, turn on the dishwasher when it’s full of utensils, and be mindful when using the washing machine by using a low temperature of at most 30 degrees.

Borrow and swap items
Have a swap party with your friends and exchange things you no longer use, such as old clothes. This way, you will give out clothes you don’t wear and get others you will wear without spending any money. Also, if there are things you can borrow from friends, relatives, or neighbors, you don’t have to buy them, for example, a wedding dress or a mower.

Stop eating out
Eating at restaurants can be expensive in the long run. If you are trying to save for a trip, you must avoid eating out as much as possible. For every meal you cook for yourself, you will save about 10 pounds, which will be well worth it if you save for about a year. You can partner with friends and cook restaurant-like delicious foods for each other and eat together. Add some wine into the mix, and you will enjoy and make some great memories together. If you work in the office, carry a packed lunch daily. Also, the best way to keep the expensive grocery low is to buy them once a week from the market. Take a list of the things you need with you to avoid overspending.

Do DIY projects
Buying new things all the time can be pretty expensive. Make things and fix the broken ones. You can repaint an old piece of furniture to give it some life and repurpose your clothes. You can also make your own décor, trim the trees and mow your lawn. Do it yourself if you have broken or torn things that can be repaired. Labor costs are quite high, so try fixing things you can, for example, learning skills like how to unblock a clogged sink is important.

Use cheaper transport means
Buying fuel for your car and paying for insurance can add up with time. Sell the vehicle and use cheaper ways to move around, such as walking, cycling, and public transportation. Ride-sharing is also another great way to reduce transport expenses and, at the same time, be kind to the environment.

Reduce accommodation expenses
Evaluate your housing situation and determine if there is a cheaper and decent alternative or a way to live in the same place and reduce your rent. If your house is too big, you can consider finding one or two roommates and sharing the rent cost. You can also move to a smaller place or a cheaper neighbourhood nearby. If possible, how about moving back in with your parents? This can be a great solution especially if you work online and don’t have to live in a specific place and commute to work.

Find a side hustle
If you have spare time, think of a side hustle you can do to help you earn extra money. Evaluate the skill sets you have and see which side hustle it can match with. Some part-time jobs you can do are teaching English online, teaching dancing, gym instructor, pet sitting, and dog walking, or buying second-hand items and reselling on eBay.

Final thoughts…

Golden Moments at the Golden Horn

Travel

Pauline and Bruce had always been an intriguing pair. Their contrasting personalities were like two pieces of a puzzle that fit perfectly. With her dark, flowing hair and vivacious spirit, Pauline had spent her life shaping young minds as a teacher. On the other hand, Bruce was a towering figure with a thick beard who had dedicated his years to the dairy industry as a consultant. His stoic nature was the perfect balance to Pauline’s playful demeanor.

Now in their 50s and enjoying the fruits of their retirement, the couple had embarked on a journey to explore the world. Their latest destination was Turkey, a land of rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. The highlight of their trip was to be the Golden Horn, the primary inlet of the Bosphorus in Istanbul.

As their plane descended into Istanbul, Pauline pressed her face against the window, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “Look, Bruce! The city looks so magical from up here!” she exclaimed.

Bruce smiled, his deep-set eyes reflecting a calm anticipation. “It’s going to be an adventure, Pauline.”

Their first day in Istanbul was a whirlwind of sights and sounds. They wandered through the bustling Grand Bazaar, where Pauline haggled playfully with the vendors, and Bruce admired the intricate craftsmanship of the local goods.

The next day, they set out to explore the Golden Horn. They began at the Eyüp Sultan Mosque, where they marveled at the stunning architecture and the serenity that enveloped the place. Pauline, always the teacher, was eager to learn about the history and significance of the mosque. She chatted animatedly with a local guide, while Bruce listened intently, absorbing every detail.

As they strolled along the banks of the Golden Horn, the couple was captivated by the shimmering waters that mirrored the city’s skyline. They decided to take a ferry ride, which offered a panoramic view of Istanbul’s historic peninsula.

Pauline’s laughter echoed over the water as she pointed out the landmarks – the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace. Bruce, ever the stoic, simply nodded, his gaze fixed on the horizon, lost in thought.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden hue over the city, the couple found a quaint café overlooking the water. They settled into a cozy corner, sipping on traditional Turkish tea.

Always curious, Pauline initiated a conversation with an elderly local named Ahmet. He regaled them with tales of the Golden Horn’s past, sultans and conquests, love and heartbreak. Bruce, usually reserved, surprised Pauline by sharing stories of their own travels.

The evening turned into night, and the trio continued to chat, the Golden Horn bearing witness to their newfound friendship. Ahmet, touched by their genuine interest in his homeland, gifted them a small, handcrafted ornament as a token of appreciation.

The next few days saw Pauline and Bruce exploring more of what the Golden Horn had to offer. They visited the Rahmi M. Koç Museum, where they learned about Turkey’s industrial past. They also took a leisurely walk in the Balat neighborhood, with its colorful houses and narrow alleys.

On their last day, they climbed up to the Pierre Loti Hill, named after the famous French novelist. As they sat at the café at the top, they were treated to a breathtaking view of the Golden Horn and the city beyond.

With tears in her eyes, Pauline whispered, “It’s so beautiful, Bruce. I’m so glad we came here.”

Wrapping an arm around her, Bruce replied, “Every moment with you is an adventure, Pauline. Here’s to many more.”

As they descended the hill, hand in hand, the Golden Horn shimmered in the distance, a silent testament to their enduring love and the memories they had created.

Back home, the ornament Ahmet had gifted them found a special place on their mantlepiece, a constant reminder of their magical journey to the Golden Horn and the friendships they had forged along the way.…

Pauline & Bruce visit the Bosphorous

Travel

Pauline and Bruce had always shared a love for adventure, even more so now that they were retired. Their children had grown up and flown the nest, leaving the couple with a newfound freedom to explore the world together. With passports in hand and hearts full of excitement, they decided to embark on a journey to Turkey, a land rich in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

Their first destination was Istanbul, a city where the past and present seamlessly intertwined. The couple found themselves in awe as they stood at the edge of the Bosphorus, the waterway that divided the city between Europe and Asia. The sun bathed the city in a warm glow as boats of all sizes glided along the water, creating a mesmerizing dance of colors and reflections.

Pauline’s eyes sparkled with wonder as she gazed at the bustling activity on the Bosphorus. Her dark hair caught the sunlight, and her infectious laughter resonated through the air. Bruce, standing next to her, wore a contented smile. His big frame and stoic demeanor seemed to soften in the presence of the beauty surrounding them.

“We’re really here, Bruce,” Pauline exclaimed, her voice filled with glee. “Just think of the history that’s flowed through these waters.”

Bruce nodded, his beard rustling in the breeze. “It’s incredible, Pauline. The stories this place could tell.”

Their days in Istanbul were a whirlwind of exploration. They wandered through the Grand Bazaar, losing themselves amidst the vibrant tapestries, intricate ceramics, and aromatic spices. They marveled at the architectural wonder of the Hagia Sophia, its grand dome reaching for the heavens. And of course, no visit to Istanbul would be complete without a visit to the Blue Mosque, where they felt a sense of tranquility wash over them.

One evening, as the sun began its descent, they decided to take a boat tour along the Bosphorus. The vessel glided smoothly on the water, passing elegant mansions, ancient fortresses, and bustling waterfront neighborhoods. The call to prayer echoed from minarets, adding a serene soundtrack to their journey.

As the boat moved along the Bosphorus, Pauline and Bruce stood side by side, hand in hand. The fading light painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, casting a magical glow over the city. Pauline leaned her head on Bruce’s shoulder, and he held her close, the barriers of stoicism melting away in the face of the beauty around them.

“This is a moment to remember,” Pauline whispered, her eyes fixed on the horizon.

Bruce nodded, his gaze fixed on the water. “Absolutely, Pauline. We’re making memories that’ll last a lifetime.”

And so, Pauline and Bruce continued their journey through Turkey, each day bringing new experiences and adventures. From the ancient ruins of Ephesus to the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, they soaked in the wonders of the country. But it was the time they spent by the Bosphorus, hand in hand, that truly captured the essence of their love and the beauty of their shared retirement adventures.…

How To Stay Healthy When Travelling

Travel

Getting out of your routine and seeing a new place frequently go hand in hand. You can maintain your health while travelling if you follow this advice.

Remain Hydrated

Medics advise consuming eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day, or around 2 litres, to prevent dehydration. Some foods can aid with hydration. Fruits like mangoes, blueberries, papayas, and blackberries are hydrating and rich in vitamins and minerals. These fruits are exceptionally high in vitamin C, which helps to promote a robust immune system while travelling. For the best blood sugar control and satiety, combine these fruits with protein-rich food and healthy fat, like fruit, a handful of nuts, and Greek yoghurt.

Bring Non Perishable Refreshments With You

Maintaining your blood sugar levels and keeping you satisfied, awake, and prepared for travel are all made possible by having a source of protein or healthy fat on hand. Nuts, dried edamame, roasted chickpeas, protein bars, and jerky are wholesome, portable foods. Energy drinks are not advised since they frequently contain over 30 grams of sugar, which results in a sharp rise in blood sugar levels followed by an unavoidable drop. Thus even though you could experience an early spike in alertness, it eventually leads to a decline in energy and causes exhaustion. Keep hydrated by drinking lots of water and green tea, and if you must have coffee, limit yourself to one or two cups early in the day and with little added sugar.

Get A Vaccine.

Maintaining a current vaccination schedule will help keep you healthy when travelling. It’s vital to check with your doctor to determine what vaccinations are suggested for the places you’re travelling to because different regions have different risks. If you require a vaccination, schedule it at least four to six weeks before your trip to allow yourself time to recuperate from any adverse effects.

Sanitise Your Hands

Among the simplest things you can do to stay healthy when travelling is to clean your hands frequently. Ensure to thoroughly wash them before meals, after using the washroom, and after touching many different things and surfaces like handrails, countertops, and elevator buttons. Carry disinfectant with you to reduce the chance of contracting any viruses.

Putting Sleep First.

To keep healthy while travelling, sleep is essential. Sleep allows us to have a healthy immune system and prevent infections. Lack of sleep reduces your body’s capacity to make cells that can fight infections, raising your risk of being sick.

Medications Should Be Carried At All Times

Make sure you carry your prescription drugs wherever you go if you have any. Carry them in their original packaging and have the doctor’s prescription printed on the label. When travelling, it’s a good idea to always have a few essential drugs on hand. The doctor advised that Ibuprofen, motion sickness, antihistamines, and decongestant medications may be helpful.

Be Equipped To Handle Emergencies

There is always a danger that you could get sick while travelling, regardless of how carefully you prepare. Finding the closest medical services is a good idea if you fall ill while travelling. Make sure you have travel insurance if you end up in the hospital or need to see a doctor while on vacation.

Eat Your Breakfast

Getting out of your routine is frequently a prerequisite for visiting a new location. Seek to consume a mix of complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and at least 20 to 30 grams of protein per meal. This will help you have a good day’s start, maintain stable glucose levels, and maintain a sense of routine. Avocado on whole-grain bread with scrambled eggs is a delicious way to get these nutrients.

Conclusion

Your trip can be made a bit simple if you follow the tips above to keep healthy.…

5 best travel cameras

Travel

Have you been planning to travel, and are you ready to hit the road? Whether you want to take photos of yourself in the new places you will travel to or images of nature to share with loved ones or sell, you will need a good camera. There are numerous options out there, so, it can be confusing if you have never bought a travel camera. It would help to choose a camera that meets your needs and fits your budget. These are the five best travel cameras you should consider buying and carrying in your backpack before starting your journey.

1. GoPro Hero 11 Black
Vloggers love this camera because of its ability to take fantastic action videos. Initially, only extreme sports enthusiasts used action cameras like this one. These were sports like scuba diving, motocross, skydiving, and skiing. However, nowadays, it is one of the most coveted travel cameras. The camera is waterproof, so you can use it in any weather without fear. The camera is also equipped with voice-activated commands and is high quality, compact and durable. This camera can shoot a 5.3K video and connect it to your phone, enabling you to take spectacular photos from different angles. It is also ideal for taking time-lapse videos such as a sunset or busy urban life. The entire GoPro series has these fantastic features. The only downside about this camera is that you need to buy several accessories to mount it and get the best images. The accessories can be costly, and you might also require extra batteries. It costs £324 on Amazon.

2. Canon Powershot SX740
This is a compact camera which means it has a bigger sensor than the smartphone camera, hence better quality photos. It has a long zoom feature with a sensor that has ½.3 inches. Its other features include fast continuous shooting, 4k time-lapse video, 4k video, and 40x optical zoom with zoom framing assist and optical image stabilizer. It costs about £324 on Amazon.

3. Sony RX100
This is another point-and-shoot or compact camera you can buy when you are going on your trips. It has a sensor that measures 1 inch, plus RAW shooting and full manual controls. This is the first model in Sony’s RX100 series. There are six more cameras in this series. The RAW shooting feature is excellent if you have photo editing skills because you can later edit the image to your liking. It has a 3x optical zoom and a fast f/1.8 aperture. You can also buy the latest models, such as RX100 version V which has more advanced features and costs a bit more than this older version. It costs £194 on Amazon.

4. Panasonic Lumix ZS70
This camera has full manual controls, OIS, RAW support, a ½.3 inch sensor, and a 30x optical zoom lens, enabling it to take phenomenal photos. Additionally, it has an electronic viewfinder, making taking pictures in sunlight stress-free. You can also get an improved version of this camera- the ZS80 for a higher price and enjoy its higher resolution and Bluetooth features. The ZS70 costs about £241 on Amazon.

5. Fujifilm X-T30 II
This camera is lightweight and has specialized exposure dials. It is made using high-quality materials, its battery lasts long, and it looks fashionable. Its 26mp crop sensor takes high-quality photos even in low light. You can also use the film simulation profiles and autofocus system to edit your image. You can own one for £1050 on Amazon.

There are other notable cameras that you can buy as a traveller, such as Olympus Tough TG-6, Nikon Z fc, Insta360 X3, Akaso Brave 7 LE, Canon M200, Sony Alpha 7C, and Canon EOS R7. The last two are full-frame cameras, meaning they are larger and more expensive than compact and mirrorless cameras. They also capture the best quality images in low light.

These are some of the best travel cameras you can buy and use to take beautiful images on your journey. They are easy to use and relatively cheap. Choose the one you like best and start capturing unique and amazing photos as you explore the world and go on adventures.…

Top 10 Locations worth Visiting In Switzerland?

Travel

When planning a trip to Switzerland, there are countless incredible locations worth visiting throughout the country. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking views of the Alps, exciting outdoor adventures, or charming little villages nestled in picturesque landscapes, there is something for everyone in Switzerland. Here are just some of the top ten locations that you simply must add to your itinerary when visiting this beautiful country. You can read more about travelling to Switzerland at the Swiss Tourist Board site: https://www.s-ge.com/en/switzerland-tourism

1. Zurich – With its bustling city center and stunning lake views, Zurich is one of the most popular destinations in all of Switzerland. Home to world-class museums, impressive architecture, and an exciting nightlife scene, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.

2. Interlaken – Located among the dramatic peaks of the Swiss Alps, Interlaken is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for thrilling adventures like paragliding and mountain climbing, or simply want to enjoy the beautiful scenery from a peaceful hiking trail, Interlaken has it all.

3. Bern – This charming capital city offers a glimpse into traditional Swiss culture and history. From medieval architecture to quaint restaurants serving delicious local cuisine, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this beautiful city.

4. Lucerne – Located along Lake Lucerne, this picturesque city is home to some of Switzerland’s most iconic landmarks. With its stunning lake views, impressive museums, and winding cobblestone streets lined with colorful shops and cafés, Lucerne is a must-visit destination for any traveler.

5. Geneva – As the second-most populous city in all of Switzerland, Geneva offers something for everyone, from bustling nightlife and shopping districts to expansive parks and peaceful lakeside promenades. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s vibrant cultural scene or enjoy some quiet relaxation time away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, you’ll find exactly what you need in this beautiful Swiss city.

6. Lausanne – Just a short train ride away from picturesque Lake Geneva, Lausanne is another popular travel destination for visitors to Switzerland. With its spectacular lake views, historic Old Town district, and lively waterfront promenade lined with restaurants and cafés, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this charming city.

7. Zermatt – Nestled amidst the soaring peaks of the Swiss Alps, Zermatt is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for thrilling adventures or simply want to enjoy spectacular views from one of the many hiking trails that surround the city, Zermatt has something for everyone.

8. Grindelwald – Another popular destination in Switzerland’s stunning alpine region, Grindelwald offers breathtaking views, world-class ski resorts, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures like climbing and paragliding. With so much to see and do in this beautiful mountain town, you’ll never want to leave!

9. Gimmelwald – Located just a short distance from Grindelwald, this tiny mountain village is one of the most beautiful destinations in all of Switzerland. Surrounded by breathtaking vistas and quaint chalets nestled amongst the hills, Gimmelwald is a true outdoor paradise for those looking to explore the Swiss Alps.

10. Lugano – Situated on the shores of Lake Lugano, this vibrant city offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy its picturesque lake views and charming Old Town district. Whether you’re looking for world-class restaurants serving delicious local cuisine or want to explore museums and art galleries showcasing works by some of Switzerland’s most famous artists, Lugano has it all. So if you’re planning a trip to Switzerland, be sure to add these top 10 locations to your itinerary!

…