Italy: Is Florence flat or hilly?

BY  Abdul Aziz Apr 7, 2020

A vacation is supposed to be a gateway to a stress-free world. It is expected to rejuvenate your senses and remove all the tiredness, boredom, and monotony of daily life.  However, in order to ensure that your vacation is as memorable as you are imagining it to be, you need to prepare for the same well in advance. A good vacation is all about planning, locating the problem areas, and ensuring that you are prepared for the same.  This planning includes everything from ensuring your home is fitted with a security alarm to keep it safe and secure whilst you are away (see the Verisure website for details), to planning your travel itinerary, and having an emergency credit card for any unforeseen disasters. Vacations are not without their fair share of problems. Even the most experienced travelers cannot plan for unforeseen developments. That being said, there are many careless travelers who forego planning and strategic execution for a month-long problem fest.  We certainly do not want to belong to that bunch of people. Whether it is a Euro Trip with friends or a journey of rediscovery to India, this article is going to help you prepare for it all. In this article, we will look at ten tips that will help you prepare for your vacation in the best possible manner.  7 Tips to Prepare for your Dream Vacation: The List 1. Manage, Collect and Arrange all your documents Call me old-fashioned, but I like to go old-school when it comes to all documents relating to my travel. This includes all my flight tickets, VISA papers, passports, hotel bookings, travel insurance, and cash.  You might say that an e-version of most of the things would suffice. However, try using your internet connectivity in some remote village in India to show your hotel booking. You will understand the need to take physical printouts and maintain a proper file of the same.  2. Get your Financials in order It is always a good idea to arrange your finances as much as possible. A cool tip is to pay as much of the bookings, travel costs, and others before leaving for your vacation. This way, you will not have to carry around too much cash or cards on your trip.  Always remember to carry just one or two debit/credit cards. Enquire ahead, as to which banks are accepted and which are not. Exchange currency right at the airport itself. All this will help you when it comes to managing your finances during your vacation.  3. Check your Connectivity Issues during a Vacation You get off the plane, switch on your phone, and surprise, there is no signal! Trust me, in an unknown land you do not want to be without your phone at any cost. Do your research and get an International Calling Card if possible.  You can also see what the local telecom operators in the country are and whether or not you can get a local SIM card in the country. You will need your cell phone for all kinds of things- from emergencies to calling for booking confirmations, to communicating with your family back home.  4. Carry your Entertainment with you If you are expecting that your Netflix will work seamlessly in some remote country, you might be in for a surprise. Even if the internet connectivity is not an issue, then there might be some other problems. This is why it is a good idea that you carry your entertainment with you.  You can use a credible video downloader like youtube to mp3 and download all videos from YouTube. Almost all series and movies are now available on YouTube. You can download all of them and save them on your laptop or on your phone. This will help you enjoy entertainment when you are just casually relaxing.  5. Pay attention to the Weather and News Visiting America during the Hurricane season might not be a good idea. Traveling to Jerusalem during a conflict situation in the neighborhood should be avoided. Most travelers are so looking forward to their vacation that they become highly optimistic.  This is not a good approach. You should always be aware of the news and happenings in the region of your travel. You do not want to be caught in some natural emergency or be a victim of some political drama happening in the country of your travel. Listen to the Foreign Ministry Advisory of your home country before embarking on the journey.  6. A Limited Travel Itinerary for your Vacation It is always a good idea to travel light and have a limited itinerary for your vacation. If you are trying to pack in too many things, you can expect your plans to go haywire. Having a limited itinerary also means that you will be exhaustively exploring each location.  Going for multiple destinations is often the hallmark of a superficial traveler. By keeping a limited itinerary, you will never feel pressured and feel that you are always falling behind. This will create pressure and take the fun out of your vacation plans. Select places, which interest you, not which your friend had gone to and recommended.  7. Plan the Come Back period before you leave for your vacation Most people might be well prepared when it comes to the above-mentioned six points. However, this is where even the best amongst us falter. You should always have a sufficient buffer time after coming back from your vacation. This is critical to prepare yourself when it comes to overcoming the vacation hangover.  Many experts say that doing things like your laundry before leaving for your vacation is a good way to prepare back for your vacation. The last thing you would want to see is a pile of dirty laundry that you would have to do post a great vacation.  Conclusion Going on a vacation can be a highly rewarding experience. On the other hand, it can also be a very stressful affair, leading to fights between couples or fallout among friends. However, if you are prepared with the above-mentioned seven tips, you can rest assured that you are mitigating most of the problems.  Can you think of some other tips that can help you while preparing for your vacation? Do let us know in the comments section below.   Read also:  5 Tips to Improve Holiday Experience for Next Vacation

BY  Nabamita Nov 14, 2023

Are you planning an exciting and long-distance road trip with your electric vehicle (EV)? How exciting! There's nothing like hitting the open road in a zero-emission, eco-friendly car? But before setting off on the journey of a lifetime, there are some essential items you should remember to pack that will make your time on the road smoother and more enjoyable.  To ensure your EV adventure is as smooth sailing as possible, we provide helpful tips for those crucial packing essentials for a successful EV road trip - from charging cables to storage bags. So, if you are getting ready for an epic journey with your beloved ride, read ahead for all our top picks! Safety Items Safety always comes first, which is no different when embarking on a long EV road trip. Here are some items to include in your pack that will give you peace of mind during the journey: First Aid Kit First and foremost, every road trip should have a well-equipped first aid kit. This might include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, medical tape, and pain relievers. A first aid kit can be a lifesaver in case of minor injuries or health issues. Fire Extinguisher Another safety item you should always have in your EV is a fire extinguisher, specifically suitable for electrical fires. Although electric vehicles are less likely to catch fire than traditional ones, it's better to be prepared in emergencies. Reflective Warning Triangles Reflective warning triangles are also essential for safety during your road trip. Should you have to stop at the side of the road, these triangles can warn other drivers of your presence, especially during the night or in poor visibility conditions. Tire Repair Kit A punctured tire can happen anytime, and it's only sometimes possible to find a service station quickly. Therefore, a tire repair kit can be a handy tool to fix the issue temporarily until you can reach a professional for help.  Pack for Different Climates When embarking on a lengthy road trip, you're likely to encounter a variety of climates and weather conditions, hence the need for appropriate preparations.  Warm Weather Gear For sunny, warm climates, pack lightweight and breathable clothing. It's also wise to include a broad-brimmed hat for sun protection, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. Hydration is vital in these climates, so ensure you have plenty of bottled water and a cooler box to keep your drinks chilled.  Cold Weather Gear In contrast, if you're likely to experience colder climates, thermal clothing, warm hats, gloves, and scarves are essential. Ensure you have a warm blanket or two, as well as a thermos flask for hot drinks. To aid vehicle handling in icy or snowy conditions, consider carrying tire chains.  Wet Weather Gear In wet climates or during rainy seasons, waterproof clothing is a must. Pack a high-quality raincoat and waterproof trousers, as well as an umbrella. It's also worth carrying a set of absorbent towels for drying off any rainwater that might get inside your vehicle.  By preparing for various climates, you'll ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable journey. Food & Water Essentials When setting off on a long road trip, you must remember your sustenance needs. Here are some ideas of what to include in your food and water essentials: Bottled Water and Hydration Packs Always pack plenty of bottled water for your journey to stay hydrated throughout. If you're planning on travelling through particularly hot climates, consider hydration packs. These are reusable, eco-friendly, and keep your water cool. Related: 6 Expert Packing Tips That Will Make Your Trips More Fun Non-Perishable Snacks Non-perishable snacks are a road trip's best friend. Choose options that are high in protein and fibre to keep you feeling full longer, such as mixed nuts, protein bars, dried fruit, and whole grain crackers. Pack enough for your entire journey, with a few extras for good measure. Ready-to-eat Meals While you're likely to stop at restaurants or fast-food joints along the way, it's always a good idea to have some ready-to-eat meals packed. These could be canned goods (think beans, soup, tuna), pre-made sandwiches, or microwaveable meals if your accommodation has the facilities.  Reusable Cutlery and Plates In the spirit of eco-friendliness, pack reusable cutlery and plates for your meals and snacks. Not only does this reduce your environmental impact, but it also means you're always ready for a picnic wherever you may find yourself! Cooler Box Finally, a cooler box is a must-have for any lengthy road trip. It will help keep your water, snacks, and meals cool and fresh, especially in hot weather. Some advanced coolers even have a heating option, perfect for warming up those ready-to-eat meals. Entertainment for long drives. Long journeys can sometimes be a bore, especially when traversing long stretches of road with little to see. That's where entertainment comes in.  Music, Audio Books, and Podcasts On long road trips, audiobooks and podcasts make great companions. They keep your mind engaged and make the journey educational and entertaining. Remember to download a mix of genres for variety. Music is a classic companion, too. Create playlists with your favorite pop, rock, country, or classical tunes to keep your spirits high. You can also explore streaming services with curated playlists for long drives. Portable Gaming Devices If you're traveling with kids, portable gaming devices can be a lifesaver. They offer a fun distraction and can keep children engaged for hours. Just ensure the games are age-appropriate and devices are charged or have charging capabilities.  Charging Cables and Adapters In this digital age, staying connected is crucial, even on a road trip. So, pack the necessary charging cables for your electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, laptops, and gaming devices. Carry a few extra cables in case of loss or malfunction. Remember to use a car charger or power bank to keep your devices powered up. If crossing country lines, bring travel adapters for charging in any socket type. Stay connected, access GPS, and enjoy entertainment on the go! Travel Board Games Travel-friendly versions of board games are excellent for taking breaks along the way. Whether it's Scrabble, Chess, or Monopoly, these games can provide fun and interactive entertainment during rest stops.  Comfort Items for Road Trips When embarking on a long journey, comfort is paramount. It can make the difference between a taxing ordeal and an enjoyable adventure. Here are some comfort items you should consider bringing on your journey. Travel Pillows  Travel pillows are a must for long journeys. They support your neck and head, making it easier to rest or even sleep during travel. There are a variety of types available, from inflatable ones that save space to memory foam pillows that offer ultimate comfort. Blankets Even if you're travelling in summer, a blanket can come in handy. It can provide additional comfort when you need to sleep in the car or encounter unexpectedly cold weather. Consider packing a lightweight throw or a fleece blanket. Portable Seat Cushion Long hours of sitting can put stress on your back and hips. A portable seat cushion can provide additional support and comfort during your road trip. Conclusion Preparing for a long road trip involves more than just packing clothes and toiletries. It's essential to consider various climates, pack food and water essentials, bring entertainment for long drives, and ensure comfort items are on hand. With proper preparation, you can have a smooth and enjoyable journey on the open road. Happy travels!   Read Also: Things To Do In Rocky Mountains National Park 15 Best Places For Adventure Dates With Your Loved One 20 Of The Best Places To Travel In Africa In 2024

BY  Barsha Sep 15, 2023

If a loved one is living with dementia, it doesn't mean family holidays must be skipped. Whether you're visiting a cottage for a long weekend or you're heading farther afield for a wedding or family reunion. While travelling during the early stages of dementia is absolutely possible, in the middle stages, it might become more challenging to determine whether a family vacation is both safe and viable; you might find that seeking out reliable dementia care options is a sounder and more comfortable option for your loved one. It’s vital to plan ahead, and factor in a few variables before you consider travelling with a loved one who’s experiencing the middle stages of dementia and whether or not doing so is a sensible decision. Dementia Symptoms That May Make Travel Difficult Or Unsafe Dementia is a multi-faceted disease, with different symptoms presenting throughout the different stages of the illness. Some of these make travelling — even with company — unsafe, overwhelming, and unpleasant for your loved one. Some such symptoms include. Wandering syndrome. Being in a new location may cause more extreme wandering. A change in time zones and different daylight hours can exacerbate sundowning. If your loved one is prone to frustration, unfamiliar surroundings could irritate and confuse them. If they are unstable on their feet and with their balance, this could be worsened by exhaustion from travelling and heightened social activity. Side Effects. New medications may have unexpected behavioural side effects that manifest during the stress of travel. If your loved one becomes anxious or overwhelmed by crowds or noise, travelling in crowded places (like airports) might be disastrous. Travelling can exacerbate symptoms of paranoia and generalized stress. If your loved one has experienced any of these symptoms, travel might be a step too far for them. Connect with their doctor for their professional opinion and insight. It very well may be that staying in the comfort of their own home with help from a specialized caregiver is the safer and more comfortable option. If there is an insistence to go travelling, you and your doctor can look at ways that your loved one can be helped. For instance, there are senior monitoring devices in Canada (and elsewhere) that can help them not wander too far and will alert you if they fall. This gives an added layer of protection for when travel is needed. Pre-Trip Planning If you’ve established that a family vacation is viable, some pre-trip measures can help to lay the foundations of a successful voyage. Here are some tips: Streamline the amount of vehicle travel. Travelling by car is ideal. If a plane, train, or bus is necessary, minimize transfers and layovers, which can be tiring. Try not to express any stress you might have when it comes to your travel plans. If it’s possible, go to a familiar accommodation, whether it's a hotel you've visited before or a cottage you've rented in the past. Remember to bring pertinent medical information, like prescriptions, medical history, your doctor’s information, and insurance details. It’s also a good idea to research and take note of the closest health services. Try to keep your everyday activities and routines, like breakfast, lunch, dinner, and bedtime, as close to normal as possible. Don’t overdo it. Try not to go overboard with a jam-packed itinerary. Take plenty of time for rest and relaxation. The Takeaway When someone is living with a disease like dementia, it doesn't mean that they have to skip important family events, like vacations. By planning ahead and being honest with your evaluation of your loved one’s comfort and abilities, it’s more than possible to create a wonderful family memory and a very special, joyful experience for your loved one. Read Also: Tips For Vacationing In Gatlinburg Great Vacation Ideas For Adventurers 4 Fun Trip Ideas To Plan For This Year