Wander to Beautiful Locales on the Best Caribbean Cruises! 

BY  Arnab Jun 20, 2023

Few experiences compare to traveling or living abroad. The thrill of immersing yourself in a vibrant new culture or experiencing the lifestyle of a different country is unrivaled. But despite the sheer joy of these adventures, many travelers and ex-pats will miss certain home comforts from time to time. Whether it’s your favorite snack or a specific brand of skincare you’ve always used, there are always things we miss when we’re abroad. But getting your hands on your favorite products when you’re abroad can be a challenge. Local international shops have limited options, and international fees can quickly get expensive. The good news is there’s a simple solution — parcel forwarding services. If you’re an ex-pat or a globetrotter looking to buy products from home, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together everything you need to know about parcel forwarding in one place. Understanding Parcel Forwarding At its core, parcel forwarding is a pretty straightforward concept- pretty much like what Canada shipping companies do. It’s a service designed to make international shopping easier and give access to a wider range of products. We’ll dig into the specific steps of how it works later, but here’s roughly how it works: Go to your favorite eCommerce store and shop as you usually would When it comes to ordering the products, you use a local delivery address that your parcel forwarding service has provided. The parcel forwarding service receives your order, usually at a warehouse where it will be processed. The company will ship your parcel to you wherever you are in the world. Essentially, the parcel forwarding service gives you a local address and then takes care of getting your parcel to you. Plus, they often offer parcel consolidation, so you can order from multiple places and just pay one shipping fee. The Benefits Of Parcel Forwarding Obviously, the biggest benefit of parcel forwarding is you can order from anywhere in the world without having to worry about shipping restrictions. But the benefits go well beyond that: Consolidation Of Multiple Purchases One of the significant benefits of parcel forwarding services is the ability to consolidate multiple purchases into a single shipment. This not only simplifies the tracking process but can also save substantially on international shipping costs. Reduced Shipping Rates Parcel forwarding companies have contracts with leading courier companies, which allow them to negotiate lower shipping rates. These reduced rates are passed on to customers, making international shipping more affordable. Reliable And Secure Parcel forwarding services are known for their reliability and security. They ensure your packages are safely stored and securely shipped to your destination. In many cases, insurance is also available for added protection. Flexible Delivery Options Whether you need express delivery, standard shipping, or other specialized shipping methods, you can select the best option for your situation. Efficient And Time-Saving Parcel forwarding takes the hassle out of international shipping. They manage all aspects, including customs documentation, which can save customers a significant amount of time. Your Step-By-Step Guide To Parcel Forwarding Now you understand what parcel forwarding is and why it's a fantastic tool for international shoppers, let's dive into how to make the most of it: Step 1: Choose Your Parcel Forwarding Service Start by selecting a parcel forwarding service provider aligned with your needs. Look for a company with a good reputation, transparent pricing, excellent customer service, and flexible shipping options. Step 2: Setting Up Your Account Once you've selected a service, the next step is to set up an account. During this process, you'll provide essential details such as your contact information, shipping address, and payment details. Step 3: Time To Shop! Now comes the fun part — shopping! When you're ready to checkout, simply use the address provided by your parcel forwarding service. Step 4: Handling Your Parcels Once your items arrive at the forwarding service's warehouse, they'll notify you. At this stage, you can choose to consolidate multiple packages or select your preferred shipping method. Step 5: Forwarding Your Parcels Finally, your items are forwarded to your current location. Choose your preferred shipping method, pay the associated costs, and wait for your package to arrive! Tips And Tricks For Parcel Forwarding Just like any process, there are a few tips and tricks to make parcel forwarding a breeze: Merge your packages — If you're shopping from multiple stores, take advantage of your service's package consolidation feature. This can significantly reduce your overall shipping costs. Check prohibited items — Always check the shipping restrictions of your current country before making a purchase. A good parcel forwarding service should have a comprehensive list of prohibited items for reference. Repackaging options — Look for parcel forwarding services offering repackaging to reduce shipping weight and subsequent costs. As a traveler or ex-pat, parcel forwarding is a fantastic tool for maintaining access to your favorite products without the hassle and high costs of international shipping. So the next time you crave a taste of home or spot a must-have item, don't let shipping restrictions hold you back. Read Also: Why Myrtle Beach Is The Ideal Summer Destination 6 Best Family Holiday Destinations In India A Traveler’s Guide To Lutsen

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 28, 2023

Houston provides its visitors with a refined assortment of places to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing, regardless of whether they are in the city for business or pleasure. And may we offer location as a tried-and-true starting point if you're unsure of even where to start your search? These hotels, which provide amenities and experiences to enhance your stay, have shaped the distinct personalities of each area of The Space City. Read on for our list of the best hotels in Houston, which includes the trendiest new hotels in downtown, accommodations close to the Astros stadium, and hip neighborhoods like Montrose. Best Hotels In Houston Here are some of the best hotels in Houston that you simple can't miss: Four Seasons Entering the Four Seasons is akin to entering a private club that has been in existence for a very long time. The interior, which is entirely composed of marble and mahogany, successfully blends traditional and contemporary Texas design elements. The hotel is incredibly kid-friendly, offering activities like mommy-and-me yoga, movies by the pool, and pizza-making classes. The recently renovated gym is open 24 hours a day. The Four Seasons is the best hotel in The Bayou City with regards to staff, amenities, and accommodations, so it makes sense that business travelers frequent this prime downtown location that is only a short distance from the convention center. Post Oak Hotel Billionaire and businessman Tilman Fertitta of Houston put his heart and soul into creating the 250-room Post Oak Hotel. He filled it with hundreds of original artworks and meticulously crafted each element, down to the custom chocolates served at turndown and the flip-flops at the pool with the hotel's logo emblazoned on them. A few people exclaimed, "It is by far the most beautiful hotel I've visited," and "the finest in luxury living." Nevertheless, readers gave the "first-class" service the most appreciation. One person remarked, "You are treated like a VIP guest from the moment you walk in." One more person described a "unforgettable experience" that can only be had with five-star accommodations: “They upgraded my room at no additional charge — and service was above and beyond my expectations.” Lancaster Hotel The famed Lancaster Hotel in Houston is redefining contemporary hospitality. The Lancaster emanates a cozy, classic elegance, from its collection of more than 200 pieces by well-known contemporary Texans to its prime location in the center of the city's renowned Theater District. The historic boutique hotel from the 1920s era was recently voted Houston's best hotel by Conde Nast Readers. It has a rich history of serving a diverse and illustrious clientele that includes writers, poets, actors, musicians, dancers, business and leisure travelers, newlyweds, circus and rodeo performers, and even a horse. The Lancaster Hotel would be delighted to have the chance to treat you to our special brand of hospitality and service. Hotel ZaZa Nestled near the Houston Museum of Fine Art, Hotel ZaZa is an elegant and seductive venue that seamlessly blends business and pleasure. One of ZaZa's so-called Concept Suites, the Houston We Have a Problem suite, goes all out with a moon-inspired couch and a life-size astronaut statue dominating one corner. The room is enormous—it is over 1,000 square feet—and has a large executive-style table that can accommodate up to eight people. ZaSpa's Have No Mercy deep-tissue massage is to die for, and the fitness machines have individual TVs (hallelujah); an extensive poolside menu offers adult popsicles and drinks by the pitcher. Meanwhile, the restaurant's terrace offers good views of the Mecom Foundation and the Museum of Fine Arts, drawing a mix of locals and hotel guests. St. Regis The opulent St. Regis, which is sandwiched between The Galleria and the affluent River Oaks neighborhood, resembles a glitzy high-rise condominium. Junior suites feature floor to ceiling windows overlooking River Oaks and the pool, as well as a separate sleeping area. No, this isn't your normal Houston hotel; the bathrooms are appointed with marble and granite, and the king-size beds have pillow tops. Observe that The St. Regis, wherever it may be, has a long-standing tradition of serving afternoon tea. JW Marriott Situated in one of Houston's most popular business districts, the JW Marriott draws a discerning clientele of business travelers looking for first-rate amenities and service without the fuss that boutique hotels sometimes bring. The rooms are remarkably modern and roomy, with free wifi, an iPad for booking spa treatments or ordering room service, and Nespresso machines as amenities. The Spa by JW provides a variety of intriguing treatments, such as massages, facials, and foot soaks. How Hotels Are Judged? Readers are asked to rank their favorite hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. The 2023 survey was completed by nearly 165,000 readers, a nearly 25% increase over pre-pandemic voting levels. Across more than 8,500 distinct properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.), more than 685,000 votes were cast. Based on their location and amenities, hotels were categorized as either safari lodges, city hotels, or resort hotels. They were also evaluated according to the following criteria: Rooms/facilities Location Service Food Value Respondents could select an option for excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor for each characteristic. These responses are averaged to determine the final scores. Wrapping Up Located in the center of Houston, Texas, and only a short distance from Discovery Green Park and the George R. Brown Convention Center, the Marriott Marquis boasts an outdoor pool that is open year-round and a lazy river shaped like a Texas. The hotel has a 24-hour fitness center, a full-service spa, and six restaurants on the premises. A flat-screen TV with premium channels and cable is provided in every room. There is a refrigerator, coffee maker, and ironing facilities available. A hair dryer and complimentary toiletries are provided in the private bathroom. A few rooms offer views of Discovery Green Park or the lazy river. Diners can choose to eat at Biggio's, which serves American cuisine, or at Xochi, which serves Mexican food and drinks under the direction of award-winning chef Hugo Ortega. Around 200 varieties of wine and tapas are served at Cueva Wine Bar. Walker Street Kitchen and Texas T Coffee House both serve breakfast. The Marriott Marquis Houston is only 250 meters from Minute Maid Park, which is home to the Houston Astros baseball team. It takes five minutes to walk to Toyota Center and BBVA Compass Stadium. William P. Hobby International Airport is the closest airport, located 15 kilometers away. Read Also: Luxe Living: The Best Hotels In Dallas Sin City Stays: Here Are The Best Hotels In Vegas! Taste Of Houston: A Culinary Adventure In Diversity

BY  sagnika May 6, 2024

Are you a water person? Do you need to open your shoes and dip your feet in the water soon? Is your favourite destination always related to beaches? Well, then you must check out these nine beaches, some of the best in Australia. When you visit these beaches, you see pure white sand, crystal clear waters, and majestic boulders—it feels like a perfect postcard scene. It is high time that beaches were given their right value, with beautiful scenery and a peaceful environment. Also, you will find my ideas on some things to do in Australia when it comes to these beaches! Keep reading to know more. 9 Best Beaches In Australia That Will Make It The Trip Of Your Life! There are several beautiful beaches in Australia, including Whitehaven Beach, Bondi Beach, Noosa Beach, and others. I will discuss with you the significance of the white sands on these beaches and the crystal-clear waters; at times, the turquoise colour is apparent. Water passes through the sand, making it so fine! Along with the water, the impurities wash away, creating clean and soft sand. Let us delve deeper into how to have some of the best trips of your life when you plan on visiting these beaches. 1. Noosa Main Beach The Sunshine Coast of Queensland offers some beautiful beaches, including Noosa Main Beach! It is one of the most popular beaches in the area, especially because the view is postcard perfect. When you visit Noosa, you will know what I am talking about, especially when you witness the swaying palms, turquoise waters, and golden shore. Lifeguards patrol the area daily, and there are ample facilities. Hence, you will not only enjoy yourself on this beach, but you will also be safe. Furthermore, if you are visiting with families, it is a perfect place because the beach is right beside Hasting Street, where you can shop. The restaurant precinct is also there, so you can easily grab some food. Because the beach is north-facing and sheltered, the surf and climate are gentle all year round. 2. Bondi Beach Bondi Beach is always packed with tourists and is one of the most crowded beaches in Sydney and Australia! It is an iconic beach because, across the stretch of silky sand, you will experience spectacular scenery with the warm Aussie sunshine on your face. This is one of the coolest beaches in Sydney!  Standing in front of perfect waves will take your breath away! If you want to enjoy this view, you should visit mid-week because the rush is a little relaxed. Check out Bondi Surf Seafoods, where you must try the fish and chips doused in lemon and wrapped in butcher's paper. Once you swim, get yourself fish and chips, sit on the beach, and eat it! Without this experience, your visit to Bondi Beach would be incomplete. Furthermore, you can also visit Bondi Icebergs to cool your body with a sunset drink. 3. Cottesloe Beach In Western Australia, Cottesloe Beach is perfect if you are into beachside dining! You can drive down from Perth to visit this aesthetically beautiful beach. Apart from visitors and tourists, it is also one of the locals' favorite spots. You can check out art exhibitions, which are sometimes organized on the beach! Apart from surfing and cycling trails, you can attend the annual Sculpture by the Sea. Several eateries provide a perfect environment for you and your fellow travelers when you are hungry. Restaurants such as Jade Court, which has been open for 35 years in Cottesloe, offer an unforgettable Chinese experience. Another significant eatery that people swear by is Indigo Oscar. It is known for its tropical-meets-Latin American dishes and vibe. You should try this place. 4. Cable Beach Located on Western Australia's northern border, Broome has this iconic beach: Cable Beach! Offering picture-perfect sunsets, you must walk across the soft white sand to enjoy the complete feel of it. The calm blue water creates a beautiful visual. You can soak up the golden glow of the place while enjoying a camel ride! There are camel rides available, which you can take to watch the beautiful sunset at the beach. Furthermore, you must read about some of these restaurants in Australia which will help you taste deliciousness! If you want to have a romantic experience with your partner after the beautiful sunset, you can go to Tuga Supper Club. The place has amazing food items, such as the lamb and mac and cheese rack and the dessert platter! The music adds to the relaxed ambiance. 5. Wineglass Bay The place is what we call a wild beauty, as Tasmania has to offer natural beauty in all its raw glory. Wineglass Bay is quite a notable beach in Tasmania, located in Freycinet National Park. The beach is a perfect curve covered with white sand, and the clear blue water borders it. You can take a stroll on the beach with your partner or enjoy yourself on the soft sand. A cozy cafe, Geographe Restaurant Espresso, will cater to your needs for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a beautiful view. If you are a seafood lover, I have just the place called Freycinet Marie Farm. You can either stop there and plan on eating right there, or you can buy all the ingredients and take them back home to cook. If you want to enjoy the sunset with a glass of wine, Richardsons Bistro offers everything from lunch to dinner and snacks! 6. Burleigh Heads The Gold Coast is popular for its beaches; that is where we have the Burleigh Heads! It will take over an hour for you to drive to Burleigh, a blending beauty of sunshine and surfing; there is a collaboration of culture and vibe. If you are into the sun and surfing, this is it for you! Furthermore, the place is a mix of chic city life and bohemian vibes. There are several dining and eatery joints with oceanfront views and towering pine trees. The Little Plate is one such restaurant where you can have delicious seafood such as Hiramasa Kingfish and Scallops. You cannot miss starters like Crispy Fried Prawn Dumplings and Peranakan Nonya Chicken. You will also have an amazing shopping experience because many shops surround the beach. 7. Lucky Bay One of the cutest places to hang out, Lucky Bay has kangaroos laid back chilling around the dazzling white sand! If you love wildlife, this place will be heaven for you. Located in the southwest corner of Western Australia, the beach is a combination of white sand in a crescent shape and turquoise water! In Cape Le Grand National Park, the view is to die for! When you travel there, you see kangaroos sunbathing in the white sand and the completely calm of the people around the beach. You can also check out beautiful views of the Recherche Archipelago. One place you must go to for food is The Deck Bar & Cafe! You will experience a blend of good wine, good company, and good food when you go there. If you are going towards Moonta and the Port Hughes, you might as well go here. You will see that the price of the food is standard and quite affordable. Several food options include schnitzels, fish and chips, salt and pepper squid, and burgers! Another beautiful place is the Coffee Barn Gelateria, which is always packed with people! 8. Mindil Beach This place is much more than just a beach because there are several beach festivities that make the overall experience perfect. It is in Darwin's Northern Territory of Australia, where you will get the complete local experience. This is also one of the best places to live in Australia!  There is always something happening at this beach, be it runs and marathons, festivals, or markets. The Beach Sunset Market has several food stalls offering sizzling food. You can have delicious food while watching the beautiful sunsets at the beach. All kinds of food stalls are available, including fruit and juice, seafood, Thai, Chinese, ice cream and sorbet, Sri Lankan, Bangladesh, Mexican, Indian, Turkish, and several others. Even the names of the food stalls are fun, such as Cheeky Cheeky Churros, Magic Cauldron, Petra's Raw Cakes, Sunset Slushie, Fat Kebabs, FireBowls, Frozen Penguins, and several others. 9. Whitehaven Beach If you love marine life, you must visit Whitehaven Beach, as it offers spectacular views. The stunning Whitsunday Islands are quite close to this beach, and you can enjoy the view with the turquoise water swirling together! You can take a variety of cruises when you are on this beach! For accommodation, you can stay on Hamilton Island, which is about 30 minutes by boat. Finishing Off... To sum up, it is quite interesting to see that these beaches in Australia can offer some of the best experiences of life. You can make memories by clicking beautiful pictures, selfies, and portraits to remember these times. You can also visit new places for eating and shopping, thus creating the perfect experience of a lifetime. In my opinion, it is an important way to relax or perform water activities while on the beach with your partners, family, or friends. Comment on which beach is best in Australia according to you and why. Learn More About: 6 Tips For A Luxurious Trip To Australia Do You Know The Best Time To Visit Australia? Read All About It! Top 10 Best Beaches In Florida: Should Know When You Are Planning To Florida