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5 memorable locations from ‘80s films to check out

Everyone loves a good movie, and everyone loves a holiday, so what do you get when you combine the two? The time of your life! It’s widely known that the ‘80s spawned a whole host of films that went on to become cult classics - from the likes of Heathers to Footloose, Dirty Dancing, and The Terminator - and forged the way for cultural changes that ring true decades later. But did you also know that for many of these iconic films, real-life locations served as the inspiration for many memorable scenes? And while some may have changed slightly in the years since cast and crew flocked to them, some are like stepping into a time capsule - or a stage for you to re-enact the films as you see fit. Lake Lure, North Carolina - Dirty Dancing (1987) Anyone who’s seen Dirty Dancing can tell you that ‘the lift scene’ is one of the film’s most iconic moments. And it - along with a few others from the film - were filmed in North Carolina’s very own Lake Lure. And with the spot boasting its very own Lake Lure Inn & Spa - where, coincidentally, the movie’s stars stayed while working on the project - it could be the perfect getaway location for your next holiday. Guesthouse International Hotel, California - National Lampoon Vacation (1983) For those embarking on their very own National Lampoon Vacation, you’re in luck - the hexagonal pool is near exactly the same as it was when Chevy Chase’s Clark Griswold enjoyed a nighttime swim with Christie Brinkley’s The Girl in the Ferrari. New York Public Library, New York - Ghostbusters (1984) The 1984 film sparked an entire host of sequels, games, parodies, and conventions for avid fans across the globe - as well as one incredibly catchy song. However, for those that would like to go above and beyond just calling their friendly neighbourhood ghostbusters, the New York Public Library’s flagship Stephen A Schwarzman building is the spot where the team had their very first encounter with the film’s ghosts. Griffith Observatory, California - The Terminator (1984) Fans of The Terminator should immediately recognise this site as the one where Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Terminator arrived in the nude, and basked in the glory of LA at night. It’s a popular location, and while a must-see for fans of the film, it also makes for a good afternoon out - the observatory itself boasts free entry, stunning views, and a range of fascinating exhibits inside to entertain the keen mind. The Grand Hotel, Michigan - Somewhere in Time (1980) The Grand Hotel was the primary location for romantic drama Somewhere in Time, and they’re proud of it. In fact, a poster for the film is reportedly even still on display there, and hosts weekends of celebration for the 1980 hit, too. The island the hotel is set on doesn’t allow cars, so anyone hoping to throw themselves back in time and fully immerse themselves in a ‘different world’, this National Historic Landmark may be just the place to do it. Images: Getty, Booking.net

Movies

The world’s 14 most underrated places in 2023

The list is aimed at “inspiring and enabling people to discover places which pack a punch in terms of food, culture and experiences but are often overlooked by travellers”, including Plymouth in the UK, Bray in Ireland, Burlington in Vermont, USA, and Gippsland in Australia. Let’s see how they rank. 14. Eastern Highlands, Zimbabwe “While most travellers to Zimbabwe will make a beeline for the majestic Victoria Falls or the renowned Hwange National Park,” Time Out said, “the country's eastern border is home to a place of equally astonishing beauty that has remained relatively unknown.” The Eastern Highlands was formed off a trio of hilly ranges, Bvumba, Nyanga, and Chimanimani - and home to the epic Mutarazi Falls, which are 772 metres in height. Visitors can biplane and step out onto a “dizzying” skywalk. 13. Bray, Ireland When the railway arrived in Bray in 1854, it was an instant attraction, Time Out explained. It was so popular that it became known as the “Brighton of Ireland”. Now, this seaside town 12 miles south of Dublin “buzzes with cafes and restaurants” after years of decline. Time Out added, “Stroll from the harbour along the esplanade to the 800-foot-high (243m) Bray Head, worth the hour’s climb for panoramic views from its rocky summit. Refuel at Butler & Barry on the beach, before a Guinness at ace local institution, the Harbour Bar.” 12. Sao Tome and Principe The volcanic Atlantic Ocean islands of Sao Tome and Principe in the Gulf of Guinea together form Africa's second-smallest country, “remain one of the unsung beauties of African travel’" according to Time Out. 11. Lombok, Indonesia “Considering how crowded the beaches can get in neighbouring Bali, it’s astonishing that more people don’t make the short trip over to the island of Lombok,” Time Out said. “The south’s white-sand beaches see more slow-moving buffalo than traffic, while Instagrammers are a rare breed in the east’s terraced rice fields. Up north, the majestic Mount Rinjani, Indonesia’s second-tallest active volcano at 3,726m/12,224ft in height, offers tough climbs and epic views. For the non-hikers, lush rainforests and thundering waterfalls beckon.” 10. Karpathos, Greece “While tourists flock to watch the sunset in overcrowded Santorini or bronze back-to-back on Mykonos’s packed beaches,” said Time Out, “Greeks in the know take the four-hour ferry ride from Rhodes to the Dodecanese island of Karpathos. “Do the same and you’ll find yourself chilling on a string of near-deserted beaches lapped by pristine waters and frequented by Mediterranean monk seals.” 9. Turku, Finland Nicknamed the “Paris of Finland” - “thanks to its waterside charms on the Aura river and thriving cafe and canteen culture”. Time Out also mentioned that it’s Finland’s oldest city and is “teeming with medieval attractions like its castle and cathedral”. 8. Burlington, Vermont The waterfront university town of Burlington has “charm”, Time Out explained and a “bustling restaurant and bar scene”. The guide said it’s becoming one of America’s’ “unmissable food and drink destinations”. The two stand-out eateries in the guide are Eastern Mediterranean-influenced Honey Road and May Day. 7. Plymouth, England Huw Oliver, Time Out’s UK editor, explained why the city on the south coast of Devon made the list, “Plymouth doesn’t cross a lot of people’s minds when it comes to planning a seaside getaway or a city break, but it should: you get two for the price of one here. It’s got culture in spades, with The Box offering world-class exhibitions in a beautiful setting and the Market Hall dazzling with its "immersive art dome”. “And that’s not to mention all the amazing food and drink, from classic fish and chips to England’s oldest gin distillery, plus quite possibly the UK’s best outdoor pool in the Tinside Lido. It offers an idyllic weekend away, right on the stunning Devon coast, and best of all, you’ll likely have a lot of it to yourself.” 6. Gippsland, Australia “Located in Victoria’s eastern corner - around a 4.5-hour drive from Melbourne - Gippsland is a bountiful wonderland encompassing alpine roads, snaking waterways, fertile farmland and deserted stretches of white-sand beaches,” according to Time Out. “It also has one-of-a-kind villages and a fast-growing food and drink scene that’s all about championing local produce.” 5. Cabo Roji, Puerto Rico Time out describes this location as "a colourful beach town on the southwest coast of Puerto Rico, Cabo Rojo is home to all the white sands and turquoise seas you expect from a Caribbean getaway. It’s three hours by car from San Juan with a laidback vibe that feels light years away from the hustle and bustle of the capital. “Void of big resorts, you can find small family-owned inns and vacation rentals such as the family-friendly Combate Beach Resort or the luxury Cuatro Casitas. “End your day sipping a passion fruit mojito with a view of the sunset the west coast of Puerto Rico is known for.” 4. Srebrenik, Bosnia and Herzegovina “Bosnia and Herzegovina is packed with charming towns, and Srebrenik (87 miles north of Sarajevo) is as charming as it gets,” Time Out explained. Here you can find Bosnia's “best-preserved medieval fortress”, “vibrant cafes”, and “graceful mosques”. “A darling waiting to be discovered,” said Time Out. 3. Cuenca, Ecuador "For a relatively small city, Cuenca packs a mighty punch when it comes to culture,” according to Time Out. “It’s an architectural beauty whose historic centre was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1999. It’s home to many artisans and artists, who showcase their work at the city’s annual arts festival, the Bienal de Cuenca.” The guide added, “it’s here that the renowned Panama hat is made, and travellers can visit workshops to see the intricate hat-making process in full swing”. 2. Lake Bacalar, Mexico “The tourist towns of Tulum and Cancun tend to dominate dialogue about Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula," Time Out said, 'while 30-mile-long Lake Bacalar – also known as the Lagoon of Seven Colours thanks to its forget-me-not, peacock and cyan waters – is often overlooked. “It makes for a welcome change of pace, where you can take in all the beauty this corner of Mexico has to offer away from the influencers and spring breakers.” 1. Mongolia Mongolia is the number one most underrated destination and “has to be experienced to be believed”, Time Out said. The guide notes it’s a land that’s known for its traditional gets, friendly nomadic people, and heard of wild horses, and is now more accessible than ever thanks to a new international airport. Time Out added, “For a perfect introduction to the country, spend a couple of days in the capital, Ulaanbaatar – it’s surprisingly clustered and easy to explore – then take in the picture-perfect ranges and fresh mountain air of Gorkhi Terelj National Park. Stay the night under the stars in your own ger, and don’t be surprised if nomadic herders stop by to welcome you.” Image credit: Shutterstock

International Travel

Cancelled flights, disrupted vacations, frayed tempers: FAQs about the chaos in the airline industry

People around the world are anxious to travel again as pandemic restrictions are being lifted. But those planning to jump on a plane for a vacation have been frustrated by chaos in the airline industry. In both North America and Europe, thousands of flights have been cancelled and hundreds of thousands of passengers have had their trips disrupted. Things will get worse before they get better. Air Canada has announced it will eliminate more than 150 daily flights for July and August. “Regrettably, things are not business as usual in our industry globally, and this is affecting our operations,” Air Canada president Michael Rousseau <a href="https://milled.com/air-canada/a-message-from-air-canadas-president-gQLU1OsSJMb4j5Fl">said in an email to customers when announcing the flight cutbacks</a>. So why is this happening? Here are answers to some key questions about the current problems with air travel. <h2>Why are so many flights being cancelled or delayed?</h2> The principal cause of the disruptions has been a shortage of qualified personnel at airports to handle the recent surge in passenger traffic. Airlines have been taking advantage of recent demand for air travel by returning aircraft and flight schedules to close to <a href="https://www.aviationpros.com/airlines/news/21271750/air-passengers-to-reach-83-of-2019-levels-this-year-iata">80 per cent of pre-pandemic levels</a>, with the resulting volume of flights putting significant stress on the capability of the supporting infrastructure — <a href="https://www.dutchnews.nl/news/2022/06/easyjet-to-scrap-more-summer-flights-from-schiphol-klm-limits-sales/">airports, air traffic control and labour conditions</a>. <h2>Are the problems only happening in certain airports or is this a worldwide issue?</h2> The congestion phenomenon in the summer 2022 travel season is rapidly spreading across a number of European and North American airports. The reason behind this concentration of congestion is quite simple: these are the air travel markets that have experienced the highest volumes of air travellers in recent months. <figure> The rapid elimination of COVID-19 protocols in these markets since March have generated a significant increase in the demand for air travel, with volumes of passengers that haven’t been seen in more than two years. This increase in volume has been highly evidenced in major airline hub airports such as <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/schiphol-airport-amsterdam-photos-security-staff-shortages-europe-flight-2022-6">Amsterdam</a>, <a href="https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/airport-chaos-european-travel-runs-into-pandemic-cutbacks-1.5959561">London</a>, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jun/19/us-travelers-flight-cancellations-chaos">New York</a> and <a href="https://globalnews.ca/video/8905320/frustrations-mount-over-ongoing-delays-at-toronto-pearson-airport">Toronto</a>, where tens of thousands of passengers are processed every day. <h2>Are all the problems related to the pandemic?</h2> When the global air travel market collapsed in March 2020 with the introduction of travel restrictions and border closures, the commercial aviation industry took steps to conserve cash and maintain a minimal workforce. Hundreds of <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/jackkelly/2021/02/01/airlines-lost-over-40000-workers-united-airlines-announced-another-14000-jobs-may-be-lost/?sh=6fa3ff1324b3">thousands of aviation workers were laid off or terminated</a>, with years of experience and technical expertise removed from the ranks of the commercial aviation communities. With the assistance of governments throughout the world, over US$200 billion of financial support was provided by governments to help the commercial aviation industry maintain minimal service and prevent financial collapse. When demand for air travel returned this March, the hiring frenzy began, but in a very different labour environment. The people who left in 2020 had, for the most part, moved on to other career opportunities and no longer had much interest in returning to an industry characterized by lower compensation and a higher employment risk. So the staff shortages have their genesis in the pandemic, and will continue to impact employment levels as travel returns. <h2>How many more people are travelling these days compared to a year ago – and compared to pre-pandemic levels?</h2> The International Air Transport Association publishes <a href="https://www.iata.org/en/pressroom/2022-releases/2022-06-09-01/">air travel statistics</a> relating to the volume of air travel throughout various world markets. It has noted that there is a significant difference in the volume of air travel, when compared to both 2021 and pre-pandemic levels. The air travel market that has demonstrated the highest rebound has been domestic North America — travel for April 2022 has increased more than 280 per cent compared to April 2021 traffic levels, but remains at slightly more than 30 per cent lower than April 2019 levels. In the Chinese domestic market, continuing pandemic-related travel restrictions and occasional city lockdowns have resulted in <a href="https://www.iata.org/en/iata-repository/publications/economic-reports/air-passenger-monthly-analysis---april-2022/">traffic levels down by close to 80 per cent</a> in April 2022, compared to April 2021 and 2019. <h2>What can be done to prevent delays?</h2> There are a number of perspectives that can be applied to a resolution of the current level of delays. European authorities have announced <a href="https://nltimes.nl/2022/06/16/schiphol-press-conference-many-flights-will-slashed-limit-passengers-ceo-wont-quit">specific reductions in flights</a>, while the U.S. government is <a href="https://www.newsweek.com/flight-cancellations-surge-buttigieg-demands-airlines-hire-staff-1717188">threatening to impose flight reductions</a> as a means of minimizing flight cancellations. The Canadian government has facilitated a meeting with the major aviation organizations in Canada to discuss <a href="https://toronto.citynews.ca/2022/06/21/transport-minister-airlines-airports-delays/">a concerted and effective resolution </a> and <a href="https://investors.aircanada.com/2022-06-23-Air-Canada-Comments-on-Aviation-Industry-Summit-with-Federal-Transport-Minister">Air Canada announced measures</a> it was intending to implement to ease congestion at both Toronto Pearson and Montreal Trudeau airports. Canadian government officials have also announced <a href="https://www.thestar.com/business/2022/05/25/airport-delays-are-here-to-stay-for-the-long-term-due-to-a-shortage-of-workers-in-airport-security-union-says.html">plans to hire close to 2,000 additional border security and screening personnel</a> to deal with specific congestion issues. Labour groups are not certain that the problems of congestion will be addressed by such actions. The main issue is the volume of air travellers that are being drawn into the airport environment by the volume of flights operated by the airlines. Airlines have decided to grow their capacity to meet surging air travel demand, but the airport infrastructure is not equipped to handle such volumes. While such enthusiasm by the airline industry is laudable in times where adequate and experienced staff are available at airports, that is not the case now — and will not be the case for the foreseeable future. <h2>How long will this last?</h2> The summer travel season is in full flight in the northern hemisphere. Additional airline capacity and greater demand for air service by a travel-starved population will continue through at least September. Unless actions being contemplated by American, European and Canadian carriers results in a reduction of peak loading of aircraft movements across major airline hubs, in North America and Western Europe primarily, the congestion and delays will continue – and possibly worsen. Relief will most likely come in the fall, as demand for air travel is reduced with the arrival of the school season. Staffing will also reach required levels by the fall, with the arrival of normal commercial air operating conditions. Other issues that may reduce demand include <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/suzannerowankelleher/2022/05/13/airfare-inflation-cool-demand-summer/?sh=42ae089032c3">higher airfares due to inflation and higher oil prices</a>, which may impact the survival of some airlines. <h2>What advice would you give to air travellers over the next few months?</h2> Airport authorities have been providing <a href="https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/travelling-this-summer-toronto-pearson-and-its-airport-partners-offer-travel-advice-for-passengers-822689624.html">guidance to travellers</a> on how best to prepare themselves for summer travel, including tips on how to avoid delays at security checks. In this coming summer of disruption, I would recommend travellers embark on their air journey with patience, ensure they are well-rested prior to departing for the airport and remember that airline staff are also experiencing stressful moments during their day. A smile, a thank you and, above all, a caring attitude for fellow travellers and staff is called for. The air travel experience will get better! Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/air-canada-flight-reductions-faqs-about-the-chaos-in-the-airline-industry-185750" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>. </figure>

International Travel

Melissa Caddick’s husband ordered to vacate $15 million mansion

Melissa Caddick’s husband has been ordered to vacate the alleged fraudster’s multi million-dollar mansion in Sydney’s eastern suburbs within the next two weeks, ahead of its sale to repay Ms Caddick’s victims. Justice Brigitee Markovic told Anthony Koletti he had to leave the $15 million property in Dover Heights by May 18, as reported by <a href="https://www.skynews.com.au/australia-news/crime/melissa-caddicks-husband-anthony-koletti-ordered-to-leave-15-million-dover-heights-mansion/news-story/cde0b09f71b707f8771af7237c1a0775" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sky News</a>. “Anthony Koletti is to be granted liberty to apply on two days’ written notice in respect of any dispute regarding the removal of personal property items from the Dover Heights,” Justice Markovic said. The profits from selling the home will be used to repay 74 investors who lost a total of $23 million through Ms Caddick’s Ponzi scheme. Ms Caddick bought the three-bedroom mansion for $6 million using misappropriated funds in 2014, which was later raided by police on behalf of the Australian Investment and Securities Commission (ASIC) in 2020. ASIC has alleged that Ms Caddick duped friends and family into <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/money-banking/melissa-caddick-s-hidden-millions" target="_blank" rel="noopener">investing millions</a> by posing as a financial advisor and pretending to invest clients’ money with forged CommSec statements. The court order comes two weeks after <a href="https://www.oversixty.co.nz/news/news/melissa-caddick-s-husband-claims-millions-in-jewels-cars-homes-and-assets" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mr Koletti claimed</a> his financial and non-financial contributions to the home entitled him to parts of Ms Caddick’s assets, including her fine art collection, diamond jewellery and Gucci wedding dress. Mr Koletti, who married Ms Caddick in 2013, said in his statement that he was seeking a $4 million cut from the sale of her Dover Heights property, $360,000 from luxury cars already sold, and $7 million in shares. Ms Caddick, who disappeared the day after the police raid and whose decomposed foot was found washed up on a NSW beach, will be the <a href="https://www.oversixty.co.nz/finance/legal/not-so-innocent-detail-in-cute-puppy-pic-reveals-melissa-caddick-s-huge-profits" target="_blank" rel="noopener">subject of an inquiry</a> in September which could answer some of the questions about her death and disappearance. Image: news.com.au

Real Estate

Bing Crosby’s vacation home hits the market

A midcentury estate once owned by American jazz singer Bing Crosby has <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.realtor.com/news/celebrity-real-estate/bing-crosby-former-rancho-mirage-estate-back-on-market-again/" target="_blank">returned</a> to the market for $USD 4.5 million ($NZD 6.6 million). The Rancho Mirage home, known as the Bing Crosby Estate, was first listed for $USD 5 million ($NZD 7.34 million) in 2018, before the price dropped twice in 2019: first by $405 million, then by another nearly $1.1 million. However, the price cuts failed to entice a buyer, and the property has returned to the market at a higher price and with new representation by David Emerson and Alexandra Trejo of realtor <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.compass.com/listing/70375-calico-road-rancho-mirage-ca-92270/946468495298185833/" target="_blank">Compass</a>. The home was last sold in 2005 for $USD 2,625,000. Located in the gated Thunderbird Heights neighbourhood in California, the single-level, midcentury home was built in 1957 with a Moroccan theme, glass walls, a pool, and gardens sprawled across 1.36 acres. The home was said to entertain A-list guests including John F. Kennedy, and the guest quarters have been renamed the JFK Wing in his honour. Other features include a billiard room, a home theatre, multiple fireplaces, and an outdoor entertaining and dining area with its own outdoor kitchen. The White Christmas singer first lived in the home - one of many he owned in California - with his wife, actress Kathryn Crosby, and their three children in 1963. The family lived at the home until Crosby’s death in 1977 at the age of 74, when Kathryn and their children moved to a larger home nearby. Images: Getty Images, Compass

Real Estate

Huge travel no-no: Woman tries to claim six resort sunbeds before 7am

A TikTok user has angered holidaymakers after dumping water bottles and towels on six vacant sunbeds at a resort in Hawaii to ‘reserve’ them before 7am. The clip was shared by an American mother impersonating people who shamelessly scatter their belongings across rows of sunbeds before walking away to return later. The video, which has racked up over two million views, was captioned, “We all know that one person at the resort.” In the video, she walks around the poolside resort area and vigorously throws her personal belongings across the lounges, as the time stamp reads 6:55am The video sparked a slew of angry online comments, with many people branding the poor etiquette as the ultimate holiday sin. One person said, “I would be moving her stuff,” while another joked, “Ahh the vacation Karen.” One commenter said they would “move their stuff” if they didn't turn up after an hour, while another remarked, “I go on vacation to get away from people like this.” Despite the comment section being flooded with angry remarks, some people admitted they have been guilty of the same actions while on their holidays. One person commented, “Nothing wrong with reserving a few chairs. I've done this. Early bird gets the worm - that's what you get for sleeping until 10!” Another wrote, “I think this is ok and I'm ok with other people doing it. They worked for it by waking early.” Image credits: TikTok

Retirement Life

How to make your holiday better for the environment

<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/cities/ng-interactive/2015/jan/20/costa-del-concrete-mediterranean-coastline-then-now-in-pictures">Recently surfaced before and after shots</a> of Benidorm – a seaside resort on the eastern coast of Spain – capture the physical transformations that have taken place in the region in less than 50 years. Gone is the small fishing village of single story houses and olive groves, and in its place has arisen the <a href="https://rua.ua.es/dspace/bitstream/10045/27662/6/benidorm_evolution.pdf">highest density of skyscrapers in Europe</a>. The economic and social opportunities that have accompanied these changes have altered traditional lifestyles just as dramatically. And it has even been proposed Benidorm <a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/travel/europe/benidorm-one-of-the-cultural-wonders-of-the-world-976708.html">should be made a World Heritage Site</a> in recognition of its tourism-driven cultural transformation. But despite the obvious benefits tourism can bring to an area, the change can be disruptive, and development can challenge preexisting economic, social and environmental models. In the Isle of Man, for example, where I conduct much of my research, a current controversial proposal is to build a <a href="http://www.iomtoday.co.im/article.cfm?id=36142&headline=Meeting%20about%20proposals%20for%20development%20at%20Glen%20Truan%20golf%20course&sectionIs=news&searchyear=2017">caravan park</a> in an isolated area of natural beauty. But of course, tourism also has many positives and it often paves the way for empowering minorities. <a href="http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160738396000515">Research in Goa</a>, India, for example, shows that tourism enterprises tend to be owned mainly by women, giving them a source of income, independence and respect in a traditionally male dominated society. From Costa Rica to the Scottish Highlands This is why <a href="https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/content/documents/5839GSDR%202015_SD_concept_definiton_rev.pdf">sustainable development</a> – an approach which tries to balance social, environmental and economic needs long term – is essential to make sure tourism brings impacts that are more on the positive side and less on the negative. Involving local people in tourism is usually the place to start, because it is local people who ultimately establish the atmosphere of a destination. Carefully planned <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/229681727_Ecotourism_impacts_in_the_Nicoya_Peninsula_Costa_Rica">eco-tourism in Costa Rica</a> for example, has involved local residents with the new developments to ensure any problems that arise are resolved. Similar involvement over in Scotland, has seen the <a href="https://strathprints.strath.ac.uk/42890/4/HamiltonAlexander_ATR2013_organic_community_tourism.pdf">West Highland Railway Line</a> run by local volunteers. And it is their enthusiasm that has helped to create a welcoming and award winning tourist attraction. By contrast, <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267927716_The_Janus-Faced_Character_of_Tourism_in_Cuba">research in Cuba</a> found local people who felt excluded from tourism developments turned their frustrations towards visitors – damaging the island’s reputation as an enjoyable place to holiday in the process. Expecting the unexpected But of course, the ultimate aim of sustainable development is to protect the existing economic, social and environmental landscapes of a place. These are after all, what tourists come to explore. So rather than making a quick profit for a few, the idea is that sustainable tourism is something that will stand the test of time and bring diverse benefits for many. <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/259434808_Global_economic_value_of_shark_ecotourism_Implications_for_conservation">Shark tourism</a> is one example of a fast growing and lucrative activity which encourages people to enjoy, and make reliable livelihoods from these creatures – rather than <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2011/oct/27/shark-conservation-gaining-momentum">eat them into oblivion</a>, or kill them to sell their <a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/06/24/traditional.treatment/">fins for traditional medicine</a>. But <a href="http://www-tandfonline-com.libaccess.hud.ac.uk/doi/abs/10.1080/09669582.2013.819876">tourism can be an unpredictable industry</a> and various challenges have left many formerly successful tourist destinations struggling to maintain visitor numbers. A series of terrorist attacks in Tunisia, for example, has seen the number of tourists <a href="http://www.tourisme.gov.tn/en/achievements-and-prospects/tourism-in-figures/figures-2016.html">drop by a third since 2014</a>. Changing tastes and increased competition has also seen many formerly vibrant seaside towns both in the UK and overseas struggling. Malta, for example, has had to work hard to <a href="http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0261517710000634">rebrand</a> itself as a cultural destination rather than a budget sun, sea and sand one. On the down So what happens when the tourists stop visiting? Well, if it’s not managed carefully, it can undermine the whole economic, social and environmental fabric of a place – and <a href="http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160738301000020">can lead to many socioeconomic problems</a>. High levels of poverty, unemployment, and ill health can be found in many former coastal resorts of the UK – which have struggled to find new sources of economic diversity. Blackpool, England’s emblematic seaside town for example, was recently estimated to have the <a href="http://www.lancashire.gov.uk/lancashire-insight/area-profiles/local-authority-profiles/blackpool.aspx">lowest life expectancy</a> for men and women in the country. Not far away from Blackpool on the <a href="http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/jtr.883/full">Isle of Man</a>, much of the beautiful Victorian architecture built to serve the once large tourist crowds have been demolished. Yet fearless riders come every year to ride in the island’s legendary <a href="https://www.iomtt.com/">Tourist Trophy</a> (TT) motorbike races. Cheered on by crowds of visiting enthusiasts, this century old event keeps tradition alive, and at the same time it has evolved to stay relevant. In 2010, the first <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TT_Zero">TT Zero</a> race involving electric bikes took place. So when it comes to planning your holiday destination for the year ahead, try and choose somewhere that protects the local environment and respects human rights – and use local businesses rather than multinationals. It’s also worth reconsidering resorts that may have fallen out of fashion but still have much to offer. You’ll still have a great time, and take some lovely photos, but it might just be that by choosing somewhere off the beaten track, you can make a difference to another person’s life in the process.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/85478/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> Written by Brendan Canavan, Senior Lecturer in Marketing, University of Huddersfield. Republished with permission of <a rel="noopener" href="https://theconversation.com/in-the-age-of-cheap-flights-city-breaks-and-world-cruises-how-to-make-your-holiday-better-for-the-environment-85478" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>.

International Travel

Japanese onsen etiquette explained

The thought of soaking in a hot spring sounds fantastic, especially after a long day sightseeing or skiing. But before you grab your swimmers and towel and rush off – check these rules on Japanese Onsen etiquette. Yukata on If you are staying at a traditional Japanese Inn, or Ryokan, you should have a yakata in your room. This light cotton kimono should be worn to the onsen, to breakfast and dinner. You can go naked underneath it, or just wear underpants. Make sure you fold the yakata correctly. You need to fold the right side UNDER the left side. Only dead bodies placed in coffins have the yukata folder right over left. Don’t be fooled by the pictures – no one wears the yukata inside the onsen – we’ll get to that soon. If the hotel has a jacket – that can be worn over the top of the yukata for cold days. Grab your towel from your room (and maybe a washcloth) You will need your towel for after your onsen soak. Bring it from your room. Trust us. Otherwise, you may be left trying to dry yourself with a towel the size of a washer. And you will also look silly. If you are going to a public onsen you will also need your own washcloth. Note that the Japanese often carry their own wash clothes to use in public toilets. That’s why you can never seem to find the paper towels – they carry their own. Sexes divide Japanese onsens are strictly gendered. If the hotel has two onsens they will swap the male and female onsens each day to be fair. Children must go with women into the female onsen. When to go We highly recommend going a few times during your stay. You don’t want to miss the best onsen. My Japanese guide tells me you should go before dinner, after dinner and before breakfast. If you drank alcohol at dinner, you should wait at least an hour before going to the onsen. The heat can make you feel faint. Shoes off Before you enter the onsen, you need to remove your shoes. You should take note of how and where the Japanese remove their shoes to avoid making a mistake. If you reach the onsen via indoors, you may need to take off your shoes before you reach the tatami mats. Watch the Japanese guests when they take off their slippers. They back up to the step until their heels touch the edge. They step out of their slippers and up onto the step backwards. Then when it comes to going down, they can effortlessly slip their slippers on and walk away. The picture above shows how NOT to do it. Those shoes should be neatly lined up with the heels pressed against the step. Other times, you will find a bench for slippers at the entrance to the onsen. Look for numbered pegs – sometimes you should clip your slippers together with the peg and then use that number for your clothing basket inside. After you have removed your shoes you will head into the change room. Most onsens will have baskets for your clothes. Strip off and get naked Yes, naked. No swimmers. We know all the onsen pictures make it look like you can cover yourself. That’s just for photos. In real life – you must be naked. Everyone is naked. No one cares. Although if you are travelling with teens and tweens – you are going to have to explain this one. Put your clothes in a basket Find a basket to put your clothes and towel into. Fold them nicely. If you had a numbered peg for your shoes – you should match that number to your basket. If not, pick anyone you want. Leave your towel in the basket. Do not carry it into the onsen. Grab your washcloth – you’re going to need it for the next step. Time to shower Every onsen will have shower taps, soap, shampoo and conditioner. Before you go anywhere near the water, you must cleanse. Sit on the stool and place the bucket on the small step in front of you. Turn the taps on and make sure you wash down every part of your body. Once you’re done, put your washcloth in the bucket. Turn the taps to cold and get the washer nice and soaked with cold water. Put the cold washer on your head Some Japanese ladies like to make it fancy. Others just sit it on top. This cold washer will help you to adjust to the heat of the onsen. Head for the onsen Now, naked and with your washer on your head, you can head for the onsen. If you do feel self-conscious you can wait to put the washer on your head and have it dangle in front to give you a small semblance of privacy. Make sure you check outside doors – sometimes there’s another onsen pool outside, or hidden around the corner. Don’t stay in too long An onsen soak is delightful, but don’t overdo it. You probably want to remain in for about 30 minutes max. You want to take the soak easy. Dip in a little, immerse, then sit back on a step. Get up, out of the water occasionally and change positions or pools. In cold snowy areas, some people like to take the bucket and use it as a water scoop to keep their top half warm. Shower again Once you’ve had enough you need to go back to the showers. Scrub and wash every part of your body before you head back to the change room to dry. Pamper yourself You will often find the change room has hair dryers, body cream and brushes you can use. You can do this naked, in a towel or in your yukata. Time to go Put your wet washer in the collection bin provided. Get dressed into your clothes and head off. Make sure that you put your slippers on correctly as you leave. Written by Alison Godfrey. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.mydiscoveries.com.au/stories/japanese-onsen-etiquette/">MyDiscoveries</a>.

International Travel

8 ideal cities for your next solo travel

The beauty of solo travel is that you can choose what you want to see and when. Here are some of the safest cities in the world guaranteed to meet the solo traveller’s needs. 1. Hoi An, Vietnam When travelling alone, people tend to form new friendships more easily and Hoi An is a great place to do so. The city offers up the best of everything: beaches, historical landmarks, lavish hotels and more. With so much to do and so many friendly locals to meet, you’ll never feel lonely. 2. Auckland, New Zealand Auckland is known for being one of the friendliest cities in the world, according to surveys by Condé Nast Traveler, so the single traveller will feel right at home. An affordable city with lots to see, such as the Civic Theatre, the Sky Tower and the harbour foreshore, Auckland is a wonderful place to visit on your own. 3. Vienna, Austria One of Europe’s finest and most beautiful cities, Vienna has so much to offer, you can’t possibly get bored. You can opt for a museum tour, a morning exploring historic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a cruise of the Danube, or visit St. Anton, known for being the best ski party city in Europe. 4. Napa, California While many consider Napa to be a romantic destination for two, it’s also an attractive spot for the solo traveller. With its beautiful vineyards, Napa is the perfect getaway from the everyday, where you can enjoy fine wines and five-star accommodation. Many hotels are equipped with private pools and lounging areas, so you can enjoy a relaxing environment. 5. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Travelling alone here will allow you the luxury of soaking in the beautiful and peaceful surroundings, affordable luxury hotels and fine cuisine, without worrying for your personal safety. Plus, the city is rich in architecture, magnificent mosques and historic sites. 6. Lahaina, Hawaii Located in West Maui, Lahaina is a perfect destination for the single traveller. Hawaii is considered a safe place to visit, and not only are the beaches serene and beautiful, but there is no shortage of adult-only resorts for guaranteed relaxation. A plethora of five-star hotels offer beach access, private pools and spa amenities. Shopping and fine dining are only a skip away from most hotels along the beach. Single travellers may also enjoy taking some surfing or kayaking lessons. 7. Sydney, Australia In case there weren’t enough reasons to visit Sydney (historical landmarks, beautiful sights, beaches, botanical gardens, and more), it’s also a safe spot to visit solo. Mild temperatures, fine restaurants and a fantastic nightlife for singles are a few more bonuses to visiting this amazing city. 8. Singapore As Singapore is one of the safest cities in the world, it is ideal for a solo escapade. There’s no shortage of good hotels and the locals and hotel staff are known for their friendly nature. Take a walk through Chinatown, spend a day at Jurong Bird Park, hit the shops on Orchard Road or simply watch the world go by at Clarke Quay. Written by Maria Barillaro. This article first appeared in <a href="http://www.readersdigest.com.au/travel/destinations/Ideal-Cities-for-the-Solo-Traveller">Reader’s Digest</a>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, <a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.co.nz/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=RDSUB&keycode=WRN93V">here’s our best subscription offer.</a> <img style="width: 100px !important; height: 100px !important;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7820640/1.png" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/f30947086c8e47b89cb076eb5bb9b3e2" />

International Travel

4 things you need to know before visiting Singapore

There are a lot of things you can expect when taking a trip to Singapore – good food, great shopping scene, well-maintained historical sites and vibrant culture and nightlife are just a few of them. To enjoy these to the fullest, here are four tips you can follow to make your visit as smooth-sailing as possible. 1. Prepare for the heat Perched near the equator line, Singapore has a tropical climate with consistently warm weather and high humidity. This means that a short walk outdoors can give you a lot of perspiration. Dressing accordingly can help you beat the heat – opt for breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Don’t forget to pack an umbrella just in case of rain or shine. 2. Get around With great transport system and small land area – the island nation is slightly smaller than Canberra – it’s easy to get around in Singapore. As mentioned above, walking might not be the most comfortable way of getting around as you may end up sweaty and sticky – even locals sometimes choose to grab a taxi for a short trip. Taxis are quite popular, and the fares are not too expensive. However, you can only hail them at designated spots. Finding an available cab during peak times or rainy weather might also be quite hard. You might want to carry cash – drivers would often prefer them, and cards generally attract surcharges. For more convenience, you can also download ride-sharing apps. Otherwise, the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) subway system is quite affordable and easy to navigate. Tickets and EZ-Link cards are available to purchase at the stations. 3. Feast on local food The culinary scene in Singapore is one not to be missed. You can try out degustation menus at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants or go to the hawker centres for authentic local delicacies. If you are concerned about hygiene, fear not – according to <a href="https://theculturetrip.com/asia/singapore/articles/survival-guide-top-10-tips-for-traveling-to-singapore/">The Culture Trip</a>, each hawker stall would come with a coloured placard to indicate the cleanliness level from A (the best) to D (a risk). Have a go at some of the country’s signature dishes such as Hainanese chicken rice, chilli crab, kaya toast, bak kut teh and more. The nightlife here is also well and alive – however, keep in mind that alcoholic drinks are more expensive. 4. Know the laws Singapore comes with many rules and regulations. Actions that might go unmonitored in other places – carrying <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/don-t-travel-until-you-know-these-laws/">certain kinds of chewing gum</a>, spitting on the street, littering or even <a href="https://www.goabroad.com/articles/study-abroad/singapore-laws-to-know-before-you-go">not flushing the toilet</a> – could result in a fine if you get caught. Even harsher punishments await those who are found to be doing, possessing or selling drugs, including medical and recreational marijuana. Have you ever been to Singapore? Share your story in the comments.

International Travel

6 best holiday destinations with year-round sunshine

Looking for a fix of hot weather? A sunny getaway to a year-round summer destination could be your solution. Below are some of the best spots around the world where you can enjoy the warm glow of the sun on your skin, any time of the year. 1. Dubai The United Arab Emirates gem is famous for many different reasons: the spotless beaches, fantastic architectural feats, dynamic cityscape, and the reliably warm weather. Sunbathe on the pristine sands of Jumeirah Beach by the iconic Burj Al Arab. You can also stroll through Dubai Creek for a taste of the city’s history or enjoy the sights of local traditional market at Old Souk. 2. Santa Barbara As <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com.au/Travel-g33045-s208/Santa-Barbara:California:Weather.And.When.To.Go.html">TripAdvisor</a> says, there is no bad time to visit Santa Barbara. This peaceful Californian city has one of the most friendly, temperate climates in the US, staying between 18 and 25C throughout the year with low humidity and little rain. It’s a perfect place for a relaxed, easy-going trip. Enjoy the day out at Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens, take in the waterfront view at Stearns Wharf or tour the iconic Old Mission church. 3. Cairo Impressive historical sites, vast sand dunes and bustling mega-city life. The Pyramids of Giza are always awaiting exploration, as is Khan Al Khalili street market and the numerous religious and archaeological buildings around the city. You can also travel to the Red Sea for a snorkelling or scuba diving session. 4. Mexico The ancient meets the trendy here. Depending on the region and the time of the year, you could see the temperature hit 35C at its highest. Adventurous ones can surf and enjoy the nightlife in the rainforest coast of Sayulita, while those looking for a peaceful time may find what they seek in the colonial town of Merida – or get a glimpse of Mexico’s past at the Haciendas of the Yucatan, where grand country estates with rich history sit among dense forests. 5. Bali A classic holiday choice for Aussies, Bali is reliably warm with an average of 26-28C year-round. Kuta and Seminyak are ideal places to surf, lounge under the sun and get rowdy, while Sanur is a more family-friendly option. You can also escape the crowds at Ubud, the island’s arts and culinary heartland, or go diving in Amed and Tulamben for an unparalleled underwater beauty. 6. Malta The mild Mediterranean weather – peaking only to 31C in July and August – is complemented with gorgeous coastlines and crystal blue waters. Hop on a ferry for the best view of the picturesque Grand Harbour or go on the Buskett-SIggiewi Walk for a trek lined with heritage spots and native gardens. Don’t forget to enjoy the local cuisine, which blends Sicilian and Middle Eastern flavours. Which destinations are you interested to visit? Let us know in the comments.

International Travel

How to venture into the African wilds safely

If your dream of an African safari retired when you did, don’t ditch the zip-off pants just yet. A real silver safari is not only doable, but also readily available and won’t break your body or the bank. By real, I mean hearing lions outside your camp at night, walking the veld with African guides, canoeing past grazing elephants, and scaling vast sand dunes. I’m 60, he’s 70-plus, and we’re still dusting ourselves off from a three-week Sunway Southern Circle safari of Namibia and Botswana featuring all of these. It was a wild ride in every sense, yet we emerged safe, sound and totally satisfied. Silver adventurers generally have the dream, the time, funds and health to travel. Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) statistics for 2018 state 41% of adventure tourism clients are now in the 50 to 70 age group, increasing numbers of them solo women. ATTA also reports southern African countries trending as a silver destination, and group safaris their most popular way to explore them. Tour companies are rushing to accommodate this growth market, which doesn’t mean the risks inherent in Africa travel have disappeared. By its very nature, this can be a place unforgiving of mistakes, so I have a few tips to ensure your venture into the African wilds is a ‘safe’-ari of the silver kind. Flights Firstly, fly safe. We learned the hard way on a previous Africa trip that flights are often delayed or cancelled, every zip on your in-hold luggage must be locked, and that connecting flights into and throughout Africa are best taken with the same airline. With its dependability and comfort, we were mighty pleased South African Airways (SAA) was the only airline flying both Africa legs of our journey – Perth to Johannesburg then Jo’burg to Livingstone where our Namibia and Botswana safari started and finished. By using SAA’s Alliance partner, Air New Zealand, for the Auckland/Perth section, we could also check our luggage through from the first airport to the last, be confident of receiving it, and have helpdesk support should problems arise. Choosing your tour How to travel Botswana and Namibia once we got there involved greater research. Eventually we figured a group tour was easier, cheaper and safer than going it alone. We opted for Sunway Safaris as an experienced operator with a local agent – again, in case of problems. Its 12-person max Southern Circle safari tour met our list of must-sees, was English-speaking and seemed a comfortable size. A well established safari company can keep costs down; our 21-day, accommodated safari with most meals provided coming in at a very affordable price. The company had forged strong relationships with communities along the route, which was also important to us, and contributed to them by employing locals as guides and tour support staff. A small group maximises personal assistance from the tour guide. When two tour companions arrived at Livingstone airport nearly two weeks before their luggage (did I mention using the same airline?), our guide’s superior tracking skills and persistence eventually helped reunite them, catalysing a memorable ‘suitcase party’ in the Namib Desert beneath a full moon. That was two weeks into the tour by which time we knew our fellow passengers well. Having shared many hours in a safari truck, convivial meals and intense wildlife experiences, we looked out for each other, which brings a security money can’t buy. Being safe in the wild Two thirds of us fell into the silver traveller category, and at no point did age compromise our experience. We coped well with the safari walks, climbing into safari vehicles or mokoro (canoes) and scaling gigantic sand dunes, none of which were compulsory, anyway. At the Okavango Delta camp we embraced the challenges of a chemical toilet ensuite and open air shower, both proving the most welcome of the trip. However, the lions, hyena and elephants visiting camp at night did stretch some comfort zones, despite our African guides’ assurances we were safe inside our tents. Turns out we were, and we came to trust the local guides implicitly. They knew the places and animals, so when they told us not to move as elephants approached, we didn’t, or to walk in single file at a steady pace when lions were about, we did. One handy tip I learned for myself was to stay between more courageous souls in these situations, which definitely felt safer although not as exciting. Eating and sleeping Exciting did describe some of our accommodation. At my age, the quality of nightly rest is a major factor in tour choice, so my favourite surprised me. Overlooking Namibia’s Okavango River and consisting of roll-up bamboo walls and an outdoor bathroom, I eventually managed to settle to sleep here while a hundred-plus elephants socialised on the opposite river bank. Our accommodation exceeded expectations, as did the food. As on many African safaris, our driver and guide cooked most meals, which were healthy and hearty. However, we did assist with the washing up and sanitising of plates and cutlery, one of the hygiene measures I credit with the absence of Africa tummy throughout our tour. Packing Many dinners were held around the safari truck at night, and I was glad of the head torch included in the comprehensive packing list offered by the tour company. As usual, I put in more clothes than suggested, which ended up donated to our tour mates with lost suitcases. I didn’t miss them. I also brought plentiful medical supplies, but learned the hard way to consult a travel doctor about pills, vaccinations and the medical certificate sometimes required for over-70s, at least two months before departing. We left jewellery at home to deter thieves, and took only the necessary camera and communication equipment, keeping it hidden from view when not in use. These are sensible precautions that gave us the security to have fun and be brave, a safari attitude for which there is no age limit. So, dig out those zip-offs and check they still fit the wanna-be silver adventurer you. You may have given up the day job, but there’s no need to give up that safari day dream just yet. Scroll through the gallery above to see what an African safari is like.

International Travel

Why more of us are opting for 'digital detox' holidays

John Briggs, a 40-year-old on holiday, texted his wife Shirley: "Look at the glacier out there." He waited for the reply, which came through on his mobile. At the time they were sitting next to one another on board the deck of their small cruise ship, along northern Alaska's icy shores. This interaction was reported to us during our research on digital behaviour. Results to date show that for many people digital communication now trumps natural conversations – and the appreciation of the present scenery has begun to elude many online devotees. A corrective to this addiction has now emerged: the digital detox holiday. Depending on which country you're in, the experience might be labelled variously as "black hole resorts", "offline escape retreats", or "dead zone holiday options". At its core, this emerging holiday trend is defined by disconnection from the usually omnipresent online and social media. The concept of digital detox has changed To assess attitudes toward this rising trend, we conducted a range of focus groups in Australia. We also plotted the changing ways the idea is being presented in the international media, analysing several hundred articles and documents from the past ten years. Aside from some early references in 2009 and 2010, serious media coverage of digital-free holidays began in 2011. The experience was first offered as an elite product targeting the wealthy few. By 2016 and in 2017, digital-free holidays went from a niche product to one that appealed to a broader consumer base. Even more interestingly, the kind of value sought in such an experience has also shifted over time. In the early years, these holidays were discussed as a means of escape and a way to de-stress. Last year, the emphasis was much more about building skills and attributes which could endure beyond the holiday. The next phase of the work is to examine these skills more closely. Early indications suggest that couples and families use these experiences to learn to engage more fully with one another, undertake joint challenges. They appreciate that holidays offer bigger screen shots of the world than the view available on the mobile phone or laptop. The opportunity to be offline will likely need to be coupled with a new suite of activities for tourists to enjoy. These may include photography, astronomy tourism, wildlife viewing, dancing and competitions, night treks and cooking classes. But these skills may be secondary to the chance of immersing oneself in conversation and joyous moments with travel companions. In the near future, there may indeed be a growing number of options for people like John and Shirley, our cruise holiday texters, to enjoy a retro holiday style where connectivity is an afterthought, not a central plank underpinning life and relationships.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/99740/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> Written by <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/philip-lovell-pearce-396538">Philip Lovell Pearce</a>, Foundation Professor of Tourism, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/james-cook-university-1167">James Cook University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/li-jing-514501">Li Jing</a>, PhD Candidate, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/james-cook-university-1167">James Cook University</a>. Republished with permission of <a href="https://theconversation.com/more-of-us-are-opting-for-digital-detox-holidays-99740">The Conversation</a>.

International Travel

7 ways to feel like you are on vacation every single day

The aches and pains I have at home disappear, all of my tension drains, and I sleep better and have more energy. If only I could pack that blissed-out feeling into my suitcase as a souvenir. “We feel so great on holiday because we let go of all of life’s stressors—finances, health, relationships, work—and tap into that relaxation response,” says Suzanne Zilkowsky, owner of Vancouver Health Coach, a company that coaches clients on health, fitness and stress management. “We don’t worry about timelines, we probably get more sleep, and we nourish ourselves better. Obviously, our stress is minimized.” It’s a phenomenon that’s backed by research: Studies have found that vacations help relieve work-related stress and provide benefits for rest and recuperation, health, and well-being and personal growth. The trick, of course, is to capture that holiday feeling - bottling it like sand from a distant beach - and bring back the great sleeps, mindful meals, fresh air, exercise and restorative practices that are the hallmarks of time away. Fortunately, it’s not as hard as you might think. Here are seven tips for achieving stress-reduced living, one for each day of the week. <div id="section">1. Make Sleep a Priority</div> <div class="view view-article-slider view-id-article_slider view-display-id-article_slider_block view-dom-id-54b45de899182b9d1f091aca24d774d9"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="views-field views-field-field-slides"> <div class="field-content"> <div class="field-collection-view clearfix view-mode-full field-collection-view-final"> <div class="entity entity-field-collection-item field-collection-item-field-slides clearfix"> <div class="content"> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-content field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even"> Sleep is vital to brain function. Not only does a good night’s slumber improve learning but studies also show that not spending enough time between the sheets can have a negative impact on your daily life. People who are sleep deprived have a harder time controlling their emotions, making decisions, paying attention, and managing stress. “When you’re tired, you tend to cope poorly, eat worse, and have bad habits that reinforce poor sleep,” says Dr. Atul Khullar, medical director of the Northern Alberta Sleep Clinic and senior consultant for MedSleep, a nationwide network of clinics that treats sleep disorders. “If you’re sleeping better on vacation, you should really examine your sleep habits in your own bedroom.” Dr. Khullar says that the most important thing is to not bring any problems to bed, which is what happens if you have your phone, computer, or television in the bedroom. It also helps to remove the clock (or angle it) so you can’t watch it and make sure that the room is dark and cool. Finally, you should aim for at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night. If you’re falling short, start by going to bed 10 to 15 minutes earlier. “Added up over a week, it can make a big difference,” he says. </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="views-field views-field-field-slides"> <div class="field-content"> <div class="field-collection-view clearfix view-mode-full field-collection-view-final"> <div class="entity entity-field-collection-item field-collection-item-field-slides clearfix"> <div class="content"> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-title field-type-text field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even">2. Get Moving</div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-content field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even"> Exercise is one of the best and most effective ways to lower stress, and it’s inexpensive and healthy for you. On holiday, you do it without even thinking about it by walking around a new city. At home, you should build it into your day. “Even moderate-intensity activity, such as going for a brisk walk, releases ‘happy hormones’ like epinephrine, adrenaline, and serotonin, which improve your mood and increase your energy,” says Zilkowsky. “It also lowers all of the symptoms associated with mild depression and anxiety.” Start with 15 minutes of daily exercise, which is enough time to increase your heart rate and begin to reap the benefits. Cycle to work, do a mini-yoga session or dust off the treadmill in your basement and walk while you watch TV. “It doesn’t have to be a long marathon run or CrossFit session,” says Zilkowsky. As well, she recommends building regular movement breaks into your workday, where you get up from the computer to get a drink of water or stretch. “It increases productivity and helps you stay focused,” says Zilkowsky. Set a notification reminder to help you remember. Don't let the cold be an excuse to not exercise. </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="views-field views-field-field-slides"> <div class="field-content"> <div class="field-collection-view clearfix view-mode-full field-collection-view-final"> <div class="entity entity-field-collection-item field-collection-item-field-slides clearfix"> <div class="content"> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-title field-type-text field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even">3. Eat Mindfully</div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-content field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even"> On vacation, we enjoy long drawn-out restaurant meals with loved ones; in real life, we scarf down processed foods in the car on the way to hockey practice. It’s a fact that stress leads to poor food choices, says Andrea Holwegner, a registered dietitian and owner of Health Stand Nutrition Consulting in Calgary. “We have really good research to support that families that eat together have less anxiety, less depression and a reduced risk of obesity,” she says. “They score higher on tests academically, all because they’re simply eating together.” Holwegner recommends that families eat at least one meal a day together to connect and eat healthy (no technology allowed). If dinner isn’t ideal because of work commitments or kids’ activities, let breakfast be the backup. To make meal planning less onerous, ask the question “What’s for supper?” the day before and take something out of the freezer so you won’t have any excuses. </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="views-field views-field-field-slides"> <div class="field-content"> <div class="field-collection-view clearfix view-mode-full field-collection-view-final"> <div class="entity entity-field-collection-item field-collection-item-field-slides clearfix"> <div class="content"> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-title field-type-text field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even">4. Find a Restorative Practice</div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-content field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even"> You know that moment when you lie back on your beach towel, toes in the powdery sand, tropical sun on your face, and literally sigh? That’s called the “ahh feeling,” and it’s important to make time for it daily to unplug, calm your mind and body and take a break from the world, says Zilkowsky. “There are so many ways you can get that feeling, and it doesn’t mean you have to go to the spa,” she says. It could be quiet time with a good book, breathing exercises or meditation, which is gaining more fans as a method to manage stress. “A restorative practice can be anything that makes you feel better,” says Martin Antony, a professor of psychology at Ryerson University and author of The Anti-Anxiety Workbook. “For some, it may be a hot bath or massage; for others, it’s getting social support.” Carve out space for your “ahh” time and schedule it into your day or week until it becomes a habit. </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="view view-article-slider view-id-article_slider view-display-id-article_slider_block view-dom-id-54b45de899182b9d1f091aca24d774d9"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="views-field views-field-field-slides"> <div class="field-content"> <div class="field-collection-view clearfix view-mode-full field-collection-view-final"> <div class="entity entity-field-collection-item field-collection-item-field-slides clearfix"> <div class="content"> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-title field-type-text field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even">5. Make “No” Your Default Answer</div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-content field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even"> It’s tempting to be a yes person, assigning yourself to school fundraisers and volunteer committees even though you don’t have the time. That’s the beauty of vacations: We only say yes to things we want to do. Ziplining? Heck, yeah! Hula lessons? Not so much. “Most people say yes to everything, and then they start getting stressed out and have to backtrack,” says Holwegner, who also coaches clients on workplace wellness and stress management. “We see so many overextended people. People have to be very intentional about what their priorities are in life and create boundaries around what’s really meaningful.” If you’re uncomfortable saying no to a request right away, ask for time to think about it. If it’s your boss asking and you really can’t say no, make sure to clarify what items can slide down the priority list to make time for the new project. </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="views-field views-field-field-slides"> <div class="field-content"> <div class="field-collection-view clearfix view-mode-full field-collection-view-final"> <div class="entity entity-field-collection-item field-collection-item-field-slides clearfix"> <div class="content"> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-title field-type-text field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even">6. Be a Tourist In Your Own Town</div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-content field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even"> Part of what makes a vacation so exciting is the novelty of a new place. You eat at trendy restaurants, sign up for bicycle tours, and try activities like surfing. In short, you do things that bring you joy and let you discover a destination. The good news is, it’s easy to be a tourist in your own town, especially on weekends. Make a point of checking out that hot new jazz bar or signing up for a food or brewery tour. Try a new hike or visit a museum. “Day in and day out, we get up, go to work, come home, and turn on the TV while we’re doing chores,” says Zilkowsky. “We’re in a rut. A lot of that stuff empties our cup. So how do we fill it back up?” In other words, what will make you feel alive, right here, right now? Go and do it. </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="views-field views-field-field-slides"> <div class="field-content"> <div class="field-collection-view clearfix view-mode-full field-collection-view-final"> <div class="entity entity-field-collection-item field-collection-item-field-slides clearfix"> <div class="content"> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-title field-type-text field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even">7. Express Gratitude Daily</div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-content field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even"> Giving thanks is good for you: It breeds optimism, boosts immunity, and helps people cope with stress. Every day on vacay is a little shout-out—we feel so fortunate and lucky to be spending time with friends, loved ones or even alone. It’s much harder to practice gratitude back at home while living the daily grind, but it’s tremendously important. “Find gratitude in small, everyday moments,” says Lisa Jones, owner of Spark for Life Coaching in Calgary. “Put your head down at the end of the day—even if you’re just grateful for surviving the day! That can really improve your mood, your happiness and your sense of fulfillment.” When we become consciously aware of all we have to be thankful for, whether by writing it down in a journal or just making a mental note of it, it puts the little aggravations into perspective. This article first appeared in <a href="http://www.readersdigest.com.au/healthsmart/conditions/mental-health/7-ways-feel-you-are-vacation-every-single-day">Reader’s Digest</a>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, <a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.co.nz/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=RDSUB&keycode=WRN87V">here’s our best subscription offer.</a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <img style="width: 100px !important; height: 100px !important;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7820640/1.png" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/f30947086c8e47b89cb076eb5bb9b3e2" />

Mind

How a lifeguard saved this 94-year-old grandma’s vacation

Janet Dunne and her family were on vacation in Montauk, New York earlier this year with her 94-year old mother who just wanted to “see the waves.” Unfortunate, when they attempted to set up for the day at the beach, they found that Janet’s mother, Tracy – who has mobility issues – was going to have a lot of difficulty reaching the sand. “Other years we had walked her down and each taken a side,” Dunne, of Bethel, Connecticut, told ABC News of her elderly mother. “There were stairs, but this year they took the stairs away. My sister-in-law and I knew we’d never get her down there. She’d sit at the house until noon, and then we’d take her to sit at the pool and we’d check on her every 45 minutes but we felt bad.” Janet asked the lifeguards on duty to see if she could borrow a wheelchair. Teenager Shane McCann sadly advised her they had none left, but had another solution. “Shane was there and he said, ‘I’ll pick your mom up,’ and pointed to the dune buggy,” said Dunne, blown away by his kindness. “My mom was game, so he picked her up right at her room. But he didn’t just pick her up. He got out and gave her both of his hands and helped her in and he was just wonderful. He brought her right down to where we were sitting.” The gesture meant so much to the family that they had to take a snap of the happy moment, which now has hundreds of shares on Facebook. Janet expressed nothing but adoration for the good Samaritan. “It meant the world that my mom got to go down there and enjoy,” she said. “It might be her last year going, so the fact she got to sit there with us for the even a couple of hours, it meant the world.” Do you have a special act of kindness you’ve witnessed or been a part of to share with us? Let us know in the comments below. Related links: <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/05/5-stunning-secret-european-islands/">5 stunning European islands you haven’t heard of</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/05/10-gorgeous-photos-from-seaside-towns-in-italy/">10 gorgeous photos from seaside towns in Italy</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/cruising/2016/04/santorini-planning-to-ration-cruise-tourists/">Santorini planning to ration cruise tourists</a>

News

10 of the most heavenly vacation spots

While every holiday has its place, why spend thousands of dollars and travel thousands of kilometres if you’re only going to stay at a resort? <a href="http://mashable.com/" target="_blank">Mashable</a> has put together a collection of 15 of the most spectacular natural tourist locations in the worth. These captivating, picturesque scenes will take your breath away. To see all of the images, scroll through the gallery above. Quick warning though – if you haven’t had a holiday in a little while, just looking at these pictures will be enough to give you a serious case of wanderlust. The images correspond to the list below. 1. Villajoyosa, Alicante, Spain Image credit: Jesus Alenda 2. Cimon della Pala, Dolomites, Italy Image credit: Rachel_TheCat 3. Trolltunga, Odda, Norway Image credit: Flickr / Harvard 4. Bermuda Image credit: Flickr / Kansasphoto 5. Khao Phing Kan, Thailand Image credit: Flickr / Ryan Wilson 6. Kauapea Beach, Kauai, Hawaii Image credit: Flickr / Bryce Edwards 7. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming Image credit: Flickr / Markbyzewski 8. Nugget Point Lighthouse, New Zealand Image credit: Flickr / Fightingdreamer42 9. Derweze, Turkmenistan Image credit: Flickr / Tormod Santorv 10. Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Island, Australia Image credit: Flickr / Damien Dempsey These images truly prove that the world is a beautiful place. It’s quite a difficult decision, but which one stands out as your favourite image? Please let us know in the comments below. Related links: <a href="/news/news/2016/04/cat-meets-dogs-at-dog-show/" target="_blank">Watch this friendly cat meet 50 dogs at a dog show</a> <a href="/news/news/2016/04/prince-george-president-barack-obama-photos/" target="_blank">The story behind Prince George’s presidential photos</a> <a href="/news/news/2016/04/lifeguard-helps-wheelchair-bound-veteran-surf/" target="_blank">Lifeguard helps make wheelchair-bound army vet's dream come true</a>

News

5 holidays to take if you win the lottery

We've all enjoyed moments thinking about where we'd jet off to should we ever hit the big lotto jackpot, so where would you go? Check out some of these dream holiday destinations for some inspiration. 1. Explore North Pole on a nuclear icebreaker Take an unforgettable trip through the Artic to the North Pole aboard the nuclear icebreaker, 50 Years of Victory. This 14-night cruise gives you the chance to explore the High Arctic from many angles: view the moving icebreaker from air on a helicopter ride, take a breathtaking walk on the ice and observe bears, birds, and walruses as you sail. For more information, visit <a href="ttp://www.adventure-life.com/arctic/cruises/3837/north-pole-icebreaker" target="_blank">Adventure Life.</a> 2. Private New Zealand adventure Should you ever find you've circled all the numbers on your lotto ticket, you don't need to go further than your own backyard to experience a truly magical holiday. A 35 day custom New Zealand adventure includes white-water rafting down the Rangitaiki River; hiking tours through some of our stunning national parks; wine tastings at historic wineries in the Central Otago region; helicopter flights to remote locations; fly-fishing at top-tier lodges; tours of the glowworm-lined Waitomo Caves; and sailing through the Bay of Islands. And as if that isn't enough, after more than a month exploring New Zealand, the remaining nine days are spent in Hawaii at Maui's Montage Kapalua Bay and Honolulu's renowned hotel Halekulani. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.frontierstravel.com/home" target="_blank">Frontiers International Travel.</a> 3. Tour the Silk Road by private train If you are looking for a truly magical journey then there could be no better way to retrace one of the most important trading routes of ancient civilisation, than with a 22-day private train tour of the Silk Road which follows in the footsteps of such legendary figures as Alexander the Great and Marco Polo. For centuries, merchants and adventurers journeyed to and from China on ancient routes through some of the most testing landscapes in the world trading silk, spices and perfumes. These 'highways' – stretching some 4,000 miles collectively came to be called the 'Silk Road'. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.mircorp.com/" target="_blank">MIR Corporation.</a> 4. Russian space tour While space travel might not be too far away for the adventurous (and wealthy) you can enjoy a taste of what life is like in space with an exploration of the Russian Space Program. On the tour guests will pay a visit to Star City, Russia's premier cosmonaut training facility, where they can participate in optional cosmonaut training (Zero-Gravity Flight or Space Walk Training) in the Orlan Space Suit Lab. At the remote Russian launch facility on the Kazakh steppe, rub shoulders with top international space officials, space veterans and family of the next space crew, and witness the heart-stirring launch of the Soyuz on its way to the International Space Station. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.mircorp.com/" target="_blank">MIR Corporation.</a> 5. Ultimate Africa safari Africa is the second largest of the Earth's seven continents, making up about 22 percent of the world's total land area and complete with Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest freestanding mountain in the world; Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World; Ngorongoro Crater, the world's largest unbroken volcanic caldera; Olduvai Gorge, one of the most important prehistoric sites in the world; and Cape Town, which has to be one of the globe's most beautiful cities with award-winning winelands a stone's throw away. Those looking to get to grips with the wild wonder of the natural world can embark on a 29-day private tour that explores the best Southern Africa has to offer and utilises the most luxurious hotels and tent camps available. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.frontiersej.com/public/elegantJourneys/1/about_elegant_journeys/main_menu_ej" target="_blank">Frontiers Elegant Journeys.</a> First appeared on <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank">Stuff.co.nz.</a> Related links: <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/travel-tips/2016/02/tips-for-handling-flight-delays/">5 tips for dealing with flight delays</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/travel-tips/2016/02/photo-shows-german-shepherd-enjoying-flight/">German Shepherd really enjoys plane ride</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/travel-tips/2016/02/tips-for-travelling-with-people-that-get-on-your-nerves/">Tips for travelling with people that get on your nerves</a>

Travel Tips

60 years of royal family vacations in pictures

If you love the photos of Prince William and Duchess Catherine enjoying a ski trip to the French Alps with their children last week, you will love these images too. We've dug up more family photos from 60 years of royal holidays. From private islands to safari adventures, this is how the royals relax. Related links: <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/news/news/2015/12/kate-middleton-wears-dianas-tiara/">Kate Middleton wear's Diana's favourite tiara for the first time</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/beauty-style/2015/12/kate-middletons-top-fashion-looks/">The best Kate Middleton style looks</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/news/news/2016/01/rare-photos-of-princess-diana/">10 photos of Princess Diana that capture her beauty</a>

News

10 steps to perfectly pack carry-on luggage

<div class="yiv9998300465" id="yiv9998300465yui_3_16_0_1_1448574137999_38161"> As more airlines opt to charge additional fees for check-in baggage, there’s never been a better time to travel light. Learn how to pack like a pro with this simple, step-by-step guide. Step 1: Measure up Before you get started, make sure your suitcase fits with your airline’s carry-on luggage size restrictions. For example, Jetstar allows bags that are 56c high x 36cm wide x 23 cm high. Failure to comply can result in a fine, not to mention pre-flight frustration. Step 2: Favourites first Take a look at what your normal wardrobe staples are. If there’s a particular outfit you wear all the time at home, pack that first. Step 3: What matches? Rifle through your wardrobe for items that match your staples. Add them to the pile. Step 4: Edit Lay the items on your bed with the staples in a row at the top, and each item’s matching pieces underneath. Remove any double ups or items that don’t go with at least two staples. Consider versatility and whether the fabric is appropriate for the climate of your destination. A jumper that can be dressed down during the day or finish a dinner-time look is perfect. Opt for multi-tasking pieces. Put any items you’re unsure of to the side in a ‘maybe’ pile. Step 5: Embrace packing squares Packing squares are small fabric cases that allow you to easily separate types of clothing. They’re a great travel hack to organise carry-on bags. You can find them at most travel specialty outlets or online retailers like ebay. Stock up on a minimum of three packing squares- two large and one small. Use the two large squares for tops and pants/other, and keep the small square for socks and underwear. It’s a good idea to buy packing squares in different colours, so when you open your luggage you can select which one you want at first glance. Note: don’t forget to put the clothes you’re going to wear on the flight to the side! Step 6: Layer Time to layer your bags, so that each item has its place. It’s best to put heavier items at the bottom of the suitcase, so that all clothes stay relatively in place when in transit. Layer shoes and appliances at the bottom, followed by the two clothing packing squares, with toiletries at the top. Keep any items you might want to use in transit- like an extra cardigan- in a front pocket. Step 7: Prevent leaks Divide toiletries in their own clear bag and make sure they fit within the airline’s size restrictions, which is a maximum of 100ml in Australia. Toss out aerosols and razers- all of your luggage will go through customs so you’ll need to buy these items when you land at your destination. Prevent liquids from leaking by unscrewing the lid and covering the opening with a double-layer of cling wrap, before screwing it back on. Protect any cords or important devises in clip seal bags. Step 8: Review your ‘maybe’ pile Take another look at your ‘maybe’ pile- the clothing that didn’t quite make the edit of must-have items. If you have additional room in your bag add two of these items in. Step 9: Wear heavy items If you’re heading to a cold climate destination, heavy items like big coats and boots might tip your luggage over the limit, not to mention take up precious space. Keep these items to the side to carry or wear on the flight. Step 10: Make the most of an extra handbag Most airlines permit one carry-on bag and one small handbag. Make the most of the extra handbag and use this for easy-access items on the flight, like books and ear plugs. Remember to check in online before your flight! Since you’re travelling without check-in luggage you can express the queues at the airport. </div>

International Travel

How to make your holiday as cheap as possible

Many overseas trips surpass their budget estimates even after everything has been planned meticulously. But fear not – here are plenty of holiday budget tips you can follow to ensure you get the most out of your trip without breaking the bank. It’s all about timing – This is undoubtedly one of the most important holiday budget tips to consider. You should plan holidays during off-peak times to enjoy huge savings without compromising on quality. Making holiday bookings early also makes a huge cost difference since most people aren't on holiday. Use price comparison websites before you go but be careful on inclusions. Bargain – Plenty of overseas retail destinations are based on bargaining as a trading culture, so don’t be shy. Baggage – Weigh and measure your baggage and check any luggage limitations with your transport options before you go to ensure no nasty surprises on surcharges. Organise a house swap –These days youcango a long way towards paying for your holiday by offering your house to tenants through sites like Airbnb and Stayz while you’re away. Cards with incentives – Most credit card companies offer travellers incentives such as free international travel insurance. You therefore stand to enjoy huge savings when you use your Gold, Diamond or Platinum card to pay for your travel expenses. Watch foreign exchange rates – You can also save a lot of money by ensuring you get the best exchange rates possible. Many international holiday travellers lose a lot of money by accepting the first exchange rate they get. Carry a currency convertor – there are plenty of apps available for your phone. Research your trip in advance – It’s also important to learn as much information as possible about your holiday destination before travelling to identify saving avenues. You can visit travel websites and online forums to get tips on how and where to get the best deals. Sites like Trip Advisor and Yelp can help you find great attractions and places to eat which won’t break the bank. Be inclusive – If your holiday destination/hotel offers complementary meals, accommodation for kids and so on, make the best out of it. Food and accommodation costs are a huge part of any holiday budget. You should therefore be very selective. For instance, it’s important to note that lunch meals are usually cheaper than dinner. Having a big lunch and small dinner can therefore help you enjoy significant savings. You can also consider options such as preparing your own meals while on holiday to cut on cost. Utilise free internet connections – Use free internet/wi-fi instead of your mobile data when you can to save on international data roaming charges. It’s important though to ensure you use secure connections. Focus on having free fun – Regardless of your holiday destinations, there will always be activities you can enjoy for free, from sightseeing to hiking to relaxing on the beach. Don’t forget to utilise overseas tax savings – Take some time to learn about the tourist tax refund schemes for retail purchases for foreigners.

Travel Tips

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