Must Read: 5 Tips On Using Credit Cards While Traveling Overseas

If you are traveling soon, arming yourself with sufficient cash and credit cards can conveniently cover all your expenses. When using your plastic card in fancy restaurants or tourist destinations, you would not have to worry about converting the currency (through the nearest money converter) or whether you converted the right amount. The credit card company will automatically do that for you. This process not only comes with simplicity but also extra costs.

Aside from choosing a credit card that is widely accepted across the globe such as MasterCard or Visa, here are 5 tips on getting the most of using your credit cards while traveling overseas…

1. KNOW THE EXTRA FEES

Even if your credit card is widely accepted, you must expect foreign exchange fees and ATM transaction charges. This is why it is recommended to contact your card issuer or bank to inquire about any extra fees or interest while traveling overseas. Through this, you can maintain your travel budget.

2. KNOW THE CREDIT LIMIT AND CARD’S EXPIRATION DATE

Nothing greatly ruins a glorious trip than suddenly discovering that you are unable to pay for your expenses. It is a shameful mess you do not want to get caught on! So, you must know and double confirm your credit limit and credit card’s expiration date with your card issuer or bank.

3. KNOW THE PROTOCOL FOR STOLEN CARDS

Although pick pocketing happens less when you conceal your credit card well, you must be familiar with the protocol for stolen cards. Firstly, you must check all your pockets and bags in case you just misplaced it. Then, report that your card is missing so you will not be charged for unauthorized purchases.

4. KNOW IF THE MERCHANT OR RESTAURANT ACCEPTS CARDS

Before deciding to indulge in the services of a merchant or a restaurant, it pays to know if they accept credit cards first. While some proudly display their credit card partnerships on the walls, others may hide it. You must still carry cash in case you found out that you couldn’t pay via credit card due to unforeseen events.

5. KNOW THE CARD’S TRAVEL BENEFITS

Most credit cards come with travel benefits such as discounted accommodations or dining. Take advantage of these rewards to help fund your vacation. If you want to know the best travel credit cards in Singapore, check this out.

Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)

Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)

Sources:1 & 2

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Top 5 Websites in Singapore to Book Flight Tickets

Expedia

Have you ever had to plan a business or personal trip in minutes? If so, you must have thanked technology for offering you the advantage of booking your tickets online. It’s a simple yet necessary service that allows people to get the ticket booking done by exploring all the options and without leaving the comfort of their homes.

If you are a newbie who has never booked a flight ticket over the internet then you should have a look at the top 5 websites in Singapore to book flight tickets as these websites will come in quite handy when you have to book your tickets instantly the next time around.

1. Expedia

It’s a cool website that is quite easy to understand and helps you get done with the reservations within a few seconds. You also have the benefit of getting your hands on some standard and last minute deals that will save you some money. Who wouldn’t like to save some money? Huh?

2. Agoda

This is another cool website for newbies. The best part about this website is its simplicity. Everything is written in a simple language and some steps are clearly mentioned so that even a person who is not so computer friendly can book the tickets within a few seconds. They also offer flight tickets on an urgent basis.

3. Zuji

This website is renowned for offering everything with regard for your travel, be it flight tickets or car hire. You can even get customized and exclusive deals in your inbox which will assist you to get started with your travel plans earlier than you would have thought. After all, you wouldn’t want to let go of an exclusive money saving package, Would you?

4. Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines can help you to plan your entire trip at a single place. You can find hotels, get travel insurance, avail Singapore tours and do much more. They also have a very active promotions section that can help you understand about their service offerings and deals in detail. All you need to do is click on the deal you find suitable and get done with the entire tour planning within a few moments.

5. Thai Airways

Last but certainly not the least; Thai Airways is another website that makes online flight booking a pleasant experience. The website has to offer great deals and updates the users on great happenings various places like exploring Chiang Mai as well as updates the users on latest happenings in the Airline industry. This website is a must visit for travel lovers as it has a lot more to offer than simple airline tickets.

The specialty of all these websites is that they offer flight tickets on priority basis so even if you are in a bit of a rush, you can trust these websites to offer affordable tickets in short order without getting scammed. Just try them once and you’ll agree that they are certainly the best websites in Singapore to book flight tickets.

(This article is brought to you by CouponzGuru.)

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6 Affordable Home Remedies For Common Travel Sickness

According to a survey, 6 out of 10 people fall sick overseas every year. There is a higher susceptibility to common travel sickness such as colds, sunburn, throat infection, constipation, and insect bites.

You do not need to visit the doctor just yet! Be healthy after traveling with these 6 Home Remedies For Common Travel Sickness…

1. COLDS

If you travelled in country at wintertime and came back immediately to sunny Singapore then, you can really catch a cold. The main virus that causes cold is still unknown. This is why the body relies on its own defenses. However, you can effectively ease its symptoms with these remedies:

a. STAY HYDRATED

Drink plenty of water, juices, or warm lemon water with honey to help prevent dehydration and loosen up the congestion. Stay away from alcohol, coffee, or caffeinated sodas as they can worsen dehydration.

b. ADD MOIST IN THE AIR

Add moist in the air by purchasing an air humidifier that retails for as low as S$15.90. This helps loosen the congestion as well. But, remember to change its water daily and clean the machine according to the manufacturer’s manual. Stay away from steams as some can cause burns.

2. SUNBURN

If you overexposed your skin to the sun just to get the perfect holiday selfies then, you can end up with painful sunburn. Until it naturally goes diminishes on its own, ease the discomfort with these remedies:

a. MAGIC POTATO

An aged-old remedy for sunburn relies on the magic of potatoes. Get two washed potatoes, cut them into small chunks, and put them inside the blender or food processor. The potato must reach its liquid form before you can pat the burned areas with it. Then, wait until the potatoes dry up so you can take a cool shower.

b. APPLY COOL COMPRESS

You shall not apply ice a pack of it to the burnt area. Instead, soak a cloth into cool water and apply it to the burnt area for several minutes. Apply this multiple times to help relieve discomfort throughout the day. Strengthen the cool compress by adding soothing ingredients such as baking soda or oatmeal to the water.

3. INSECT BITES

Without consulting your doctor, most insect bites and stings heals naturally. Unless if you feel other symptoms such as fever then, it could be Dengue. Otherwise, relieve the itching, pain, and swelling with these remedies:

a. RUB TEA BAGS

Gently rub damp and cool tea bag over the bites. The natural tannins in the leaves will remove the excess fluid to decrease the swelling and pain felt.

Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)

Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)

b. APPLY LEMON JUICE

The natural antioxidants and alpha-hydroxy acids found in lemon juice are good for healing and cleansing the skin. Apply a few lemon juice particles over the mosquito bites with a cotton ball then, let it dry. Afterwards, you must rinse it well. You have to be careful when applying this remedy outside of your house because the oils in citrus fruits can make the skin more susceptible to sunburn.

Sources: 1, 2, 3, & 4

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10 countries beyond Southeast Asia you may consider visiting next

Deciding on a country to visit can be a perpetual headache, especially when group consensus is needed. Indeed, given that there are 195 countries in the world today, reading up on the attributes of each country and comparing the alternatives can be painfully time-consuming. Determining whether a travel destination fits your personal preference is another uphill task.

However, with plummeting airfares and the plethora of fun-filled and enriching tourist activities available, it makes economic sense to take full advantage of them to gain maximum exposure to the world and widen one’s horizon.

Thus, this article aims to shorten this search-and-evaluate process by cherry-picking 10 popular destinations that appeal to most folks. It is specifically useful for potential tourists who plan to venture beyond the Southeast Asian territories and want to make the most out of their limited holiday budget.

Click to enlarge:

country

Is Italy next on your bucket list?

The Almafi Coast

The Almafi Coast, Italy (Image credit: http://benvenutoamalficoasttours.blogspot.sg)

Should you visit The Almafi Coast or Cinque Terre? Both are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. BENVENUTOLIMOS has done a comparison for you here.

Disclaimer: Individual experiences may differ and this flowchart is not meant to be exhaustive.

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Have A Selfie Spree At The Most Picturesque Places In Singapore

Are you an aspiring model or photographer looking for the perfect photo-shoot location? If you do not have the access to a professional studio, fret not because there are a lot of picturesque outdoor spots that are worth visiting. These spots are not only limited to models or photographers; if you want to savor the scene, you can too! You can always take great photos for fun! Just have your selfie stick ready as you go to the Most Picturesque (Yet No-Cost) Places In Singapore…

1. FOR THE HERITAGE NOSTALGIA

About 15 minutes away from the Eunos MRT is your first potential photo-shoot location – the Koon Seng Road. It is filled with traditional Peranakan shophouses that are pastel colored and intricately embellished. Be in awe with the rich architecture background as you take a beautiful selfie.

2. FOR THE ARTISTIC TOUCH

I was one of the lucky few people who witnessed the halls of National Gallery Singapore before its grand unveiling later this year. All I can say about it is that, every corner and every room is undeniably Instagram worthy. This is because the place used to be the halls of the Supreme Court and the City Hall. Starting it off with the elegantly white entrance that used to be a car park. Instead of going inside the traditional doors, we went inside the windows.

This majestic space is the #Singapore Courtyard at the @nationalgallerysingapore❕

A photo posted by Registered Psychometrician (@agoncilloanna) on

Simply, they took something old and added a creative modern twist. An aesthetically pleasing background is perfect for snaps!

3. FOR THE CHILD IN YOU

Travel to Toa Payoh to see the Dragon Sand Playground…this might be the last of its kind. As its name says, the playground is dragon shaped and sand based. These were the popular playgrounds in the 70s-80s. After 1993, they were phased out due to safety concerns. Take a trip down to memory lane and reminisce your childhood memories as you take photos of your #OOTD (Outfit Of The Day).

Image Credits: http://remembersingapore.org

Image Credits: remembersingapore.org

4. FOR THE NATURE JUNKIE

Punggol Waterway Park as is one of the favorite locations of wedding photographers. It is located at the heart of the Punggol Eco-town – the first eco-friendly town in Singapore. That said, you could take unforgettable pictures along the Punggol Waterway Bridge and the Punggol Waterway Park Tree.

5. FOR THE TOTALLY HIPSTER

Two of the hippest spots in Singapore can house the most pleasing photo-shoots. These are namely: the Haji Lane and the Orchard Gateway Bridge. Haji Lane has a myriad of vintage shophouses that sell contemporary and quirky items such as accessories and clothing. The road is also filled with textile shops that have been in business since the 50s! And, my favorite corner is that of the Piedra Negra Restaurant’s because of its vibrant graffiti.

Image Credits: Luke Ma via Flickr with CC License

Image Credits: Luke Ma via Flickr with CC License

On the other hand, Orchard Gateway Bridge gives a modern vibe as its futuristic glass bridge joins the orchardgateway@emerald and Orchard Gateway. Always have your camera with you so you can stop and snap some selfies while you are walking along. 🙂

Sources: 1 & 2

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