What is The Purpose of a Travel Guide?

Whenever we decide to go out on adventures, everyone usually wants to visit a new destination with unique activities and attractions. Besides, there is also the excitement of getting the most out of every trip. However, it is still quite challenging to visit all the places that we desire mainly because of lack of adequate information or the inspiration to try new experiences, especially in foreign destinations. A travel guide is often one of the best solutions to such hindrances. So, what is the purpose of a travel guide?

Background Information about Destinations

Travel guides are offered in the form of booklets or soft copy documents with detailed information about different travel destinations. There is a lot of background information that can be found in travel guides including the history of the destination, names of popular landmarks or attractions, means of transportation, accommodation as well as some of the local activities that travelers can engage in while visiting.

The background information is usually offered in plain text with relevant photos and videos that enable travelers to gain better insights into the destinations discussed therein. A travel guide can either focus on a particular destination or multiple destinations.

Travel Tips and Ideas

Apart from background information about travel destinations, travel guides can also provide tips and ideas to assist travelers in getting the most out of every trip. The tips and ideas mainly comprise of views from travel experts and people who have visited the destinations based on their personal experiences. Besides, they can also include views and insights from the locals.

The common topics covered include how to save money while traveling, how to travel light, where to find help when you get sick during a trip, places to avoid among others. Travel guides provide tips and ideas to help you plan and execute a more fulfilling trip.

There is so much more that you can still get from travel guides to help with choosing a travel destination and making the experience memorable. Simply check with your travel agent or airline for the latest travel guides to start planning your adventure.

Tips for Traveling with Terminally Ill Parents

The news of terminal illness on your parents will leave you devastated both physically and emotionally. But, it should not be a reason to leave them behind when going on adventures. In fact, coming with them on the trip can be a great opportunity for you to spend the last moments of their lives together. If you are planning a trip with terminally ill parents, the following are guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Consult with a Doctor about Travel Options

While there are some kinds of terminal illnesses that people can safely travel with, there are certain conditions that can make it hard for patients to travel. As a result, it is advisable that you consult with your parents’ doctors to find out if they are fit for travel. Depending on the particular illness and the symptoms, the doctor may clear them to travel or advice against it. In case they are cleared to travel, the doctor will advise on medications and how to care for them during the trip.

Take Time to Learn About the Illness

Terminal illnesses can present a wide range of symptoms with very serious implications. Before traveling, take some time to research about the illness so you know what to expect. Discuss with your parents’ healthy provider to understand how the condition progresses and what you can do to keep safe and happy during the trip.

Know Where to Get Help In case of Emergency

When traveling with terminally ill parents, you never know when their conditions can get worse. Thus, it is important that you know where to get help in case they may need medical assistance. If you are travelling abroad, find hospice care facilities in the area and have their contacts for convenience.

Living with the reality that your parents will soon pass away is hard but, you can rely on the above tips to make your last moments together memorable. Traveling is an incredible way to let go painful experiences.

Top Features of a Travel Insurance Policy

Top Features of a Travel Insurance Policy

Traveling is a part of many people’s lives today. After sa long trip to New Orleans, a fellow pal of mine by the name a Gabe of Auto Masters Collision Center shares his opinions saying that in regards of your reason for traveling, there are lots of risks that you will be exposed to like loss of luggage, sickness among others. And, one of the best ways of dealing with such issues whenever they occur is obtaining a travel insurance policy. To be able to get the best travel insurance policy, you should at least be enlightened on the basics. Below are top features of a travel insurance policy that you should know.

Coverage for Medical Emergencies

Things can change at any time while on the road and chances of health related issues are usually high. For convenience, you should consider a travel insurance policy that covers medical expenses for both in and out-patient services.

Cover Against Personal Accidents

You should also make sure that the travel insurance policy you acquire provides cover against bodily injuries incurred when traveling. Besides, the cover should also extend to death resulting from travel-related accidents.

Cover for Lost Passport and Checked Baggage

Losing your passport or luggage, especially in a foreign country can be frustrating. When buying travel insurance, be sure to get a policy that also provides coverage for passports and checked baggage lost while traveling.

Cover For Delayed or Cancelled Trips

Unfortunate things can happen just a few hours or minutes to departure, causing you to delay or cancel the trip. To ensure that you do not lose the money already paid for bookings, you need a travel insurance that covers against curtailed or cancelled trips.

Cover Against Home Burglary When You Are On a Trip

Most cases of home burglary often happen when the owners are away. Imagine coming back from a trip to find all your home appliances missing due to burglary. Opting for a travel insurance plan that covers such risks can save you the humiliation.

While the ones listed above are the main features of a travel insurance policy, it is always advisable to take time to study all the details of the plan you are buying in advance. Sometimes, the specific risks covered and the level of coverage may vary so, take your time to be sure you are getting the best deal.

Travel Trends to Try in 2019

Travel Trends to Try in 2019

The travel industry is one of the rapidly changing in terms of consumer behavior. And, 2019 is yet to see a whole lot of amazing trends. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or looking to venture into traveling in need of unique and more fulfilling adventure, there are various trends to choose from. Below is a list of the top travel trends that you should try out for a new adventure in 2019.

Mini Trips

Many travelers are shifting from the traditional week or even month-long holidays to shorter trips. One of the reasons is because of the enhanced flexibility in flight schedules, transport and accommodation alternatives. Besides, most people also find it quite stressful to plan big and extended holidays. Mini-trips also mean you can travel while keeping the routine for your current job since the retreats can be schedule just for weekends. Planning mini trips is easy and they can be a great way to whisk away that travel bug.

Insta-holidays

While some people may still want to deny it, Instagram has and will still play an integral role in the way people pick travel destinations today. In 2019, it is predicated that more people will use Instagram to choose the places to visit. Destinations that are Instagram worthy will see a significant rise in visitors. Insta-holidays can entail a series of activities for social media, for instance, attending a week-long art or music festival on a dozen exotic islands with international artists.

B-Leisure Travel

Unlike the popular business trips, a majority of people are finding it more exciting mixing business with leisure. In fact, some say it is efficient and more rewarding to work while on dedicated leisure retreats. In B-leisure, you can even bring along the family on a business trip. With better planning, you could easily beat two birds with one stone; have a great adventure while also taking care of business.

Although it is still early to say that all the above trends will rule 2019, they offer great opportunities for a unique and fulfilling adventure that you definitely want to try out. You should also do further research to find other interesting travel trends. Nevertheless, any of these travel trends will provide an awesome travel experience.  

Useful Responsible Travel Tips

Useful Responsible Travel Tips

Responsible travel is not a new concept in the travel industry. However, quite a number of people still face challenges in embracing it. Unlike what some think, responsible travel is not about making big changes or sacrifices that will ruin your trip. Being a responsible traveler mainly emphasizes on small and attainable changes aimed at improving social and cultural wellbeing. The following are useful tips for responsible travel to try out during your next trip.

Respect the Cultures and Traditions of the Locals   

Regardless of where you are visiting, always avoid actions or behaviors that the locals may consider disrespectful. If you are not sure, ask around about some of the things that are tabooed in the area.

Create Your Own Adventure

Take some time to explore the surroundings on your own using public transport, a bike or even on foot. In this way, you will be conserving the environment while also getting to know your destination better.

Take Part in Local Community Activities

The essence of responsible travel is to leave the people you came into contact with during the trip with something to smile about. As such, engaging in activities aimed at raising the social and economic standards of the locals can be significant contribution. You can join a community organization; make a donation to the local health center or school among other efforts.

Do Not Buy Products from Endangered Animal or Plant Species

No matter how enticing they may be, products made with materials from endangered species are prohibited. Avoid products made of corals, ivory, turtles, hardwoods, shells, feathers, fur, reptiles, teeth and horns.

Reduce and Manage Your Waste

The way you handle your wastes can have significant impacts on the environment. When traveling, always remember to dispose your waste properly. Insist on biodegradable products and go easy on the packaging.

As you can see from the tips given above, responsible travel mainly requires that travelers use common sense and conduct themselves in a manner that will not offend others or interfere with the environment.

Chill and Relax in the Breathtaking Island of Barbados

Summer is here, and everyone is planning where to spend their vacation. But you’re already getting tired of the same old summer spots you used to go to. Head to Barbados also known as the “Little England”, this tropical island retains a robust British Influence. This charming island is mainly composed of coral limestone and is surrounded by coral reefs. But the northeast of the island or district in Scotland, which runs through the parishes of St. John, St. Joseph and St. Andrew, consists of sandstone and clay. This area is known for its rich in vegetation and spectacular scenery and is covered in most if not all island tours.

Barbados Rum

There’s nothing  as great as starting  your vacation with a bottle of authentic pirate rum. Of course as a tourist, one is likely to order the usual cocktails or martinis from the bar. Don’t! Instead, why not enjoy the local Barbados rum which is a whole lot cheaper? Also, this rum is world-class so one should try it when one goes to the island. Tour Mount Gay Visitor’s center and have a sample of the best rum that the Caribbean can offer.

Party at the St Lawrence Gap

St. Lawrence Gap, a 1-mile road in Barbados is famous for nightclubs, jazz bars, and pubs where you can dance until you drop. The Gap is famous on the island, and every tourist should go there. As a plus, the food is less expensive than food in other tourist restaurants or hotel diners. One can get the most authentic Bajan seafood experience accompanied by island party music that livens up the southern coast of Barbados along with the barbecues that are simply to die for.

A Calm Interlude

In the middle of all the hustle bustle of your vacation take some time to relax and have a pleasant, peaceful walk through Welchman Hall Gully, a path that’s filled with beautiful flowers, spice trees, and vegetation. You might spot a monkey or two if you’re lucky. It’s also an excellent place for bird watching, too.

South Coast boardwalk beach

This crystal clear ocean beach of Barbados offers the perfect setting for days spent on the beach with water activities or the beach, jet skiing, windsurfing, kite surfing, kayaking, sailing, water skiing, snorkeling, wakeboarding, and scuba diving. Also for deep-sea fishing, yacht charter cruises available. For the true lover of water, equipment is available for rent in almost all disciplines, such as diving, surfing, kayaking, and kite equipment. Lessons are available in almost all water activities as well.

Summer only comes once a year and the best way to enjoy your summer vacation is finding the perfect place to chill and relax. So if you are scouting for a new place to spend your vacation. Barbados is the place for you. So look for affordable Barbados travel and get ready to have some cool Caribbean summer time.