BY Nabamita SinhaFeb 13, 2024

Before packing your first box, make sure to notify your utility and service providers of your move date and new address. This includes essential services like gas, electricity, water, internet, phone, and cable or satellite TV. Notifying them in advance ensures you receive a final bill for service at your old address so you can pay any remaining balance. Provide the exact date the service should stop and your new address where the service should start. Also give them a forwarding address for the final bill, which may come later. Taking these proactive notification steps alleviates headaches from missed bills or payments during a busy move. Avoid Bill Surprises While On The Go Constantly traveling or relocating for extended periods can make paying and keeping track of utility bills a real headache. Set your accounts for automatic and paperless billing to avoid missing payments or getting hit with late fees. Have electric, gas, cable, internet, phone, and other bills set to autopay directly from your bank account every month while you are away, and make sure you have enough funds available to cover those payments? Also, set up your accounts so that bills can be viewed and managed electronically online through each provider's website. Retail expert movers recommend routing all bills and statements to a trusted relative or P.O. box that will forward your mail to wherever you end up. With a few preparatory steps before locking up and heading out, you can travel worry-free knowing vital services won't be disconnected. Forward Important Mail During Transitions Whether you're moving across town or traveling overseas for months at a time, don't let lapses in mail service leave you in the dark on important communications. Before an upcoming move, submit a change of address to the post office so mail gets routed to your new residence or a trusted contact. This ensures you receive mail from utility companies, banks, insurance providers, and other services during the transition process. If taking an extended trip, have the post office hold your mail until you return or forward it to a friend or family member who can scan and email you anything urgent. This way bills, legal documents, and other correspondence don't pile up unchecked at your empty house while you're gone for weeks or months. Staying up-to-date on mail prevents unexpected issues. Read Also: Corporate Travel Redefined: The Power Of Taxi Amsterdam For Business Rides Streamline Services While Away When you're preparing for an extended time away from home, look at temporarily suspending non-vital home services to save money. Cable TV and internet packages often tack on fees, so you end up paying for services never used. Before an extended trip or during slow relocation periods: Put cable TV services on seasonal hold - once reactivated, retain your previous channel package without added fees Suspend internet if wireless access is not essential during your time away Stop newspaper delivery which will pile up unread Place gym memberships on hold status so monthly fees aren't wasted Disable alarm monitoring systems with the assurance of quick reactivation Pausing unnecessary utilities and home services over weeks or months gives savings that add up. Most providers let you conveniently pick up where you left off for seamless transitions. As the Federal Communications Commission notes, be aware of any terms or conditions associated with temporarily discontinuing services. With some advanced planning, you can streamline the services you actually need and forego the rest while you’re away. Get Seasonal Utility Rates For Long Trips When planning for an extended trip spanning multiple seasons, take advantage of many utility providers' seasonal service plans to maximize savings. Call your gas, electric, and water companies to inquire if they offer special rates for customers who will be away for months at a stretch–common for snowbird travelers and those holding up somewhere warm for the frigid winter months. Oftentimes providers give breaks on standard bills when they know in advance you won't actually be occupying the home to use services for a fixed duration. Find out what options are readily available for putting gas, electric, water, and even cable on hold status just until your return, even if you come back at a different time annually. Checking on special cost-saving programs specific to extended seasonal gaps in service can pay off. This allows flexible travelers focused on warm weather destinations to save a little more towards their next adventure on the road. Reconnect Services Upon Returning Home Don't come home to a property full of shut-off notices! Be proactive by scheduling and confirming the reactivation of utility and home services shortly before your return. A few days ahead: Call the cable company to reopen service on your scheduled move-in date - this prevents lagging connections. Have the power company resume electrical service by your designated date to avoid dark, warm apartments. Reactivate your home internet modem and wireless router to get back online for work and entertainment needs as soon as you arrive. Resume your garbage pickup on the day you move back to prevent waste pile-ups. As cautioned by USA.gov's household services guidance, don't assume providers will automatically switch your accounts back on. After lengthy absences, directly request all services be transferred or started at your location effective on the precise date of your arrival to avoid any lapses. Scheduling ahead alleviates having to reboot utilities one by one after coming home tired from travel. Instead, enjoy seamless access to functioning appliances, climate control, and amenities. Planning Ahead Minimizes Headaches Whether you're frequently on the go or planning an extended getaway, don't let utility billing and services fall by the wayside. With some advance preparation before transitions, you can redirect mail, suspend non-essential accounts, take advantage of seasonal rates, and seamlessly reconnect everything upon returning home. Staying actively informed and visible to providers while away reduces the chances of penalties, confusion, or disruptions down the road. A few simple proactive tasks like automating payments or consolidating bills to one trusted advisor can alleviate countless headaches. Embrace solutions that simplify managing obligations from afar. The little time invested upfront in organizing your affairs makes for smooth travels every step of the journey. Read Also: Sands Of Splendor: Luxurious Desert Safari Experiences In Dubai 20 Of The Best Places To Travel In Africa In 2024 6 Best Destinations For A Safari In Kenya

BY Ariana SmithDec 26, 2021

With overseas travel off the cards for the time being, why not consider an Aussie holiday in 2022. Not only it is our country home, but it is also as well the most beautiful holiday destination in the world with some of the best accommodation, such as the great ocean road stay hotels. You can also get pretty good deals due to the lack of travel occurs. As long as Covid restrictions aren’t in place for these destinations, they represent some of the best trips you can take in 2022. Here are some best Auatralian vacation ideas. Australian Travel Ideas for 2022 Australia is an amazing place and is considered to be one of the best places in the world for making a trip there. the wildlife, will amaze you, just like the beaches and the rare species of plants. Australia is home to rare speices, to enjoy seeing something that you don't in everday life, keep reading the article till the end. Kangaroo Island: Kangaroo Island is just off the coast of South Australia and is one of Australia’s untouched gems. With pristine beaches, incredible bush walks and plenty of local food and drink, there’s something for everyone of every age. Kangaroo Island is great for nature lovers, with plenty of local fauna around, and even wildlife sanctuaries if you want to get up-close and personal with a few critters. There are also plenty of places to stay, from villas on the bay kingscote to hotels in nearby Adelaide. The whole family would love a visit to Kangaroo Island. Murray River Cruise: While we’re in South Australia, let’s not forget the incredible Murray River cruise. It’s an iconic journey every Aussie should take once in their life, so why not now? Two of the vessels, The Murray Princess and the Proud Mary depart from Mannum in South Australia, so you can even add it on before or after your Kangaroo Island trip. There’s no better time to explore Australia’s longest inland waterway on a trip you simply have the best Australia vacations ideas to experience. Kakadu National Park: Kakadu in the Northern Territory is one of those Aussie adventures most people wish they were able to do. Well, the beauty is, you can absolutely do it. You don’t need to go completely off-road to enjoy Kakadu, because there are plenty of accommodation options in the area. It’s a cultural and adventurous trip, and the weather is hot all-year-round. There’s also plenty of fun for the kids, with the Leanyer Water Park and a range of natural waterfalls and family-friendly swimming holes. The Great Barrier Reef: If you’re heading to tropical North Queensland, don’t leave the Barrier Reef off your list. Truth be told, there is so much to do in Far North Queensland, such as visiting the Daintree Rainforest or checking out the stunning Port Douglas. But by far one of the greatest experiences is the Great Barrier Reef. With crystal clear waters, beautiful coral, and an abundance of brilliant sea life, it’s something you just have to see for yourself.  The Whitsunday Islands are nearby too, offering some great accommodation options that you’ll never forget. Coffs Harbour: While not as world-renowned as some of the others on this list Coffs Harbour is a truly beautiful spot. It’s perfect for a getaway with family, friends, or even by yourself! You can fly there, or drive easily from Sydney or Brisbane. That’s what makes it a great little add-on to any coastal holiday. There’s a marine park there too, which the kids will absolutely love – and so will the adults! You can meet some lea lions and dolphins, and spend plenty of time relaxing on the beautiful beaches in the area. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q1: Is Australia now, quarantine-free? A: Australian citizens and residents can now travel anywhere without obeying the quarantine restriction, but that depends on the arrival from one of the eight Southern African countries.  This allowance is at the national level, as not all regions are allowing international travel.  Q2: Can I travel to Australia now? A: Only, vaccinated Australians and permanent residents are allowed to move in and out of the country.  Q3: Is a tourist visa is open for Australia now? A: It is possible to apply for a visa to visit Australia, but you won’t be allowed inside the country.  Read Also: Budget-Friendly Travel Ideas In Australia Top 5 Used Japanese Vehicles In Australia Top Ten Southern Africa Off-The-Beaten-Path Adventures A Beginner’s Guide To Island-Hopping In Greece

BY Ariana SmithNov 15, 2021

Have you always wanted to travel around the world? Or perhaps you have been bitten by the travel bug and are keen to plan your next trip? Either way, there is probably only one thing holding you back from jumping on the very next plane to your preferred far-fetched destination. Money. Unfortunately, the traveler lifestyle does not lend itself well to those with a less than favorable bank balance, especially if you want to visit the top attractions and marvel at the must-see sights. That being said, there are ways that the average Joe (or Josephine) can afford to travel in style in the same way that those with a trust fund can. That being said, there are ways that the average Joe (or Josephine) can afford to travel in style in the same way that those with a trust fund can. All that you need to know is  how to pay off your debt and travel. Sell your possessions: Although this may seem a little extreme, if you are serious about traveling the world, you will have to make certain sacrifices. If you are planning to travel for several months or even a year, you may want to consider selling your car, as it will just be sitting unused while you are away anyway. This is a good option if you live in a city that boasts a good public transport system. Other possessions you may want to consider selling include: Unwanted clothes Furniture Jewelry Old tech devices anything that you do not need or want anymore could be easily transformed into cash for your next adventure. Work in a summer camp: The beauty of working in a summer camp is that not only will you earn a decent wage that you can save up to fund your travels further, but your flights, accommodation, and food are all included in the initial price. For example, if you choose USA summer camp, for only $399, you can travel to explore the United States and earn some extra spending money while you are there. You do not need to have any experience with children to apply, and you will get the chance to make some great friends and enjoy new and exciting experiences. Scale down your social life: If you love nothing more than partying with your friends at the local bars and clubs or dining out with your partner at expensive restaurants, then now is the time to cut back on all these little luxuries. You might be surprised by how much money you are spending on going out and socializing. Instead, make the effort to cook your own meals from scratch, buy drinks from your local supermarket, leave your debit/credit card at home when you go out, and take a limited amount of cash. It is a good idea to cancel any unnecessary subscriptions and memberships such as weekly magazines and going to the gym. You will get plenty of exercise when you are backpacking through India or hiking in the Himalayas. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q1: How much money do you have in the travel fund? A: The general rule for funding for traveling is at least expenses put away of three months.  Q2: Can you get paid to travel? A: yes you can if you are willing to work along the way instead of just paying you can also earn. Some gigs will cover your transport cost and some will pay for the entire trip and maybe there are some gigs that will send you home with more money than you started with.  Q3: How can I travel for free? A: look for work exchanges     Travel to the old country for free     Swap houses       Babysit, house sit, or pet sit. Q4: Can traveling be a job? A: Whether you are thinking of a career shift or just getting started, you can always find a job to trip on. The training a job that offers traveling is always hard, but the investments can be covered once the journey starts.  Read Also: Top 3-Week Itineraries For A Perfect Tour Of Europe: T AND TB 5 Backpacking Tips For An Unforgettable Euro-Trip Your Next Road Trip: 4 Tips Before You Depart