Luxe Travel, Minimal Budget: Can It Be Done?

 

Image source

The travel industry likes to suggest in their adverts and marketing that you can get all the benefits of a high-end luxury trip without paying full price for it. However, before you book your next break you need to ask the question, can luxury travel really be done on a minimal budget? Read on to find out more.

Yes - accommodation bookings

One way that you can indeed minimize the cost of your luxury vacation is to play the booking system. This can be done in a number of ways.

The first is to be aware of timings and how this affects prices. For example, booking very early (over 1 year in advance) often comes with huge discounts as travel agents are keen to get the first wave of rooms sold. Similarly, leaving your booking until just before you go can also mean you can save a considerable amount on the price. It also gives you the chance to save up money to pay the vacation off in full as well.

In addition, some providers market themselves as luxe but charge a lower rate, consult these for the 5-star treatment at a 3-star price. Something that you can further enhance the savings on if you don't mind not knowing where you will be staying until you arrive. 

 

Good discounts can often be found on luxe hotels.

Image

No - prices don't fall below a certain amount

The thing is though, that luxe vacations no matter when you book them are very unlikely to fall under a certain limit. This is because providers know what they are worth and what their profit margins are. This means they won't discount so heavily that the will lose money.

They also know that there will nearly always be someone to fill that space, even if they do leave it until the last minute. Something that can also stop the prices falling super low too.

Yes - plane tickets

Air travel is a major and often the most costly part of a vacation, and many people choose to book this separately to their accommodation. Luckily, if you know the system, this is also an area that you can save large amounts on.

Firstly, make sure that you know when the airline that you want to travel with releases their tickets during the year. Plane tickets are often priced on a demand basis, so when they are first released, and there are lots the price is a lot lower.

Also, don't discount chartering a private jet for shorter journeys, as surprisingly they don't always cost as much as you'd think. Something that you can find more info about by clicking the link. Just remember to ask for the 75% discount on empty leg seats. Otherwise, the cost may seem totally out of your price range!

No - living costs will be the same

It is also worth bearing in mind, however, that luxe destinations are full of high-end restaurants, coffee shops, and stores. Something that means the cost of living when you get there will still be high. With that in mind, it can still be pricey to vacation in that area even if you do get discounts on flights and accommodation.

In conclusion, you can certainly travel for less than full price on a luxe vacation. However, you will still end up paying a significant amount, so you just need to work out whether it's worth it for the high-end experience. 

Kalu Yala: The World's Most Sustainable Modern Village

Have you ever been to Kalu Yala?  I have been reading a lot about it and I am considering it. Off-the-grid. Powered by the tropical sun. Meals from our food forest. Jungle orchestras. Sleeping hammocks. And a negative carbon footprint. This is not what you’re used to and that’s the idea. Currently accessible only by two miles of rough dirt road, our valley is located 50 minutes from downtown Panama City and 35 minutes from the international airport. On this tropical frontier, a settlement is being established with plans to grow into a thriving town.

At Kalu Yala,they are in the process of building the world's most sustainable modern village nestled in the Panamanian rain forest in an ecologically-responsible way. Within the Institute, programs take place in two venues: creating the town's foundation in Kalu Yala, and developing relationships in our neighboring town of San Miguel. All programs will participate in a outdoor valley-based seminar each Monday on the Foundations of Innovation, Creativity, and Sustainability, and many interdisciplinary and cultural programming with be offered. Many programs will collaborate with and learn from Panamanian contacts in various academic fields and esteemed institutions.

If you are truly interested in roughing it, Kalu Yala is for you!  That is the truth about Kalu Yala.   A lot of post-graduate students have gone and had great experiences. You study abroad in Panama.  If you check with your college or university, there is a strong possibility you can get credit for this. 

The only problems with Kalu Yala I see are there are more people applying, than actually get to go.  This is true with most programs like this.  So, have all your ducks in a row when you apply!  

As with any program, there is Kalu Yala criticism.  Kalu Yala has 99% positive review rate.  In my book, that is wonderful.   But, with Kalu Yala being a relatively new experience and new program, they are working out any kinks.

I think this would be an exciting adventure for anyone.  I have always wanted to live off-grid and experience the jungles of Panama. I think it would be a fun and definitely an educational experience.  When you are out there helping to build a town,you learn a lot about your self.  I think sometimes we do not travel for the benefit of seeing  beautiful scenery, we travel to find ourselves. The stunning scenery is an added bonus.

Bottom line, the truth about Kalu Yala is you have to check out sources to see if it is a fit for you.  You make the choice to go.  

Tips for Getting a College Scholarship

Going to college can be very costly.You have so many expenses related to college; books, tuition, fees,  and so much more.  Even if you qualify for grants, that does not always cover the necessities.  You should seek out scholarships to have defer some of these costs.  I am going to give you some tips for finding scholarships.

Before you start applying for scholarships, you must have some things in order.  Your high school and/or college transcript.  And, I must say, most scholarships are offered to those with good grades.   Make sure you have done some volunteer work, so you can list that on your application for a scholarship. A lot of scholarships are based on financial need,.  Make sure you read the directions carefully before applying.  Always be ready to write an essay,because most scholarships, such as the Xcela Wealth Scholarship, ask for that.   There are quite a few scholarships based entirely on your grades , what your major is, or even a single question for the essay part!

If you are in high school,you should talk to your counselor. They have a plethora of information on scholarships.  Set up a meeting and take diligent notes.  Most scholarships require that you have a recommendation from a teacher or someone in the school system.   I know the high school counselor at my child's school send s out weekly emails with information about scholarships.

The financial aid office at the college you want to attend would be by next stop.  That financial aid person WANTS you to get in THEIR college, so they are willing to really give you individual help to help find the funds for you to attend.  There are tons of scholarships, such as the Kulpa Family Scholarship, in that office.  Make that appointment to discuss as soon as possible.

Check with the company that you parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles work for.  Many companies and corporations offer scholarships to their employees families. Start asking now!

Many local and civic organization offer scholarGoing to college can be very costly.You have so many expenses related to college; books, tuition, fees,  and so much more.  Even if you qualify for grants, that does not always cover the necessities.  You should seek out scholarships to have defer some of these costs.  I am going to give you some tips for finding scholarships.

Before you start applying for scholarships, you must have some things in order.  Your high school and/or college transcript.  And, I must say, most scholarships are offered to those with good grades.   Make sure you have done some volunteer work, so you can list that on your application for a scholarship. A lot of scholarships are based on financial need,.  Make sure you read the directions carefully before applying.  Always be ready to write an essay,because most scholarships, such as the Xcela Wealth Scholarship, ask for that.   There are quite a few scholarships based entirely on your grades , what your major is, or even a single question for the essay part!

If you are in high school,you should talk to your counselor. They have a plethora of information on scholarships.  Set up a meeting and take diligent notes.  Most scholarships require that you have a recommendation from a teacher or someone in the school system.   I know the high school counselor at my child's school send s out weekly emails with information about scholarships.

The financial aid office at the college you want to attend would be by next stop.  That financial aid person WANTS you to get in THEIR college, so they are willing to really give you individual help to help find the funds for you to attend.  There are tons of scholarships, such as the Kulpa Family Scholarship, in that office.  Make that appointment to discuss as soon as possible.

Check with the company that you parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles work for.  Many companies and corporations offer scholarships to their employees families. Start asking now!

Many local and civic organization offer scholarships.  I know my local telephone company is a "cooperative" and they offer scholarships to students whose parents or grandparents are customers.  My local electric company is the same way.  My local Lions Club also offers a scholarship each year to a student living within their local district.

Let Google search be your friend.  Simply google "scholarships" and I know there are many results.  Also, remember you can apply for and get many scholarships!  Don't be afraid to apply for any scholarship for which you think you qualify. 

To help you get started with your scholarship search I’ve provided a few low submission ones for you to check out below:

●     Dr. Usha Rajagopal Scholarship

●     Bellesoma Method Scholarship

●     Chase Rubin Scholarship

●     Blake Rubin Scholarship

●     Adrian Rubin Scholarship

●     Kalu Yala Scholarship

What tips do you have for getting a scholarship?

Scratching that Travel Itch Without Going Broke

https://www.pexels.com/photo/close-up-of-globe-335393/

 Travelling the world is something that is the dream of near enough everybody in the world, but so many miss out on this opportunity due to lack of funds, work commitments or a fear of change. However, the world is changing at such an alarming rate that more and more opportunities are becoming available every day.

 While in the past you needed to scrimp and save just to get away for a couple of weeks at most, now, you can travel and work at the same time. There are so many different options out there that it would be unfair to yourself to ignore these chances any longer.

 CONTINUE YOUR CAREER ELSEWHERE

 As the world becomes ever more interconnected, the chance to work remotely in another country is becoming more and more of a reality. This can be done through freelance work, such as writing or photography, but also continuing your career across the oceans.

 Applying for and achieving an online Masters in supply chain management is something that is desirable all over the world. And this is just one of the options available. Many companies on foreign shores are aching for an English speaking person with the right qualifications to help with their international divisions. Seeking these opportunities will provide you with the freedom to travel and keep the pennies rolling in.

 CHANGE THE WORLD

 If you just want to give back to the world, the looking into volunteer opportunities is an excellent way of seeing the world and helping those less fortunate. There are charities and organisations that want and need your help to build schools, rescue animals and save the environment that you can apply for.

 This sort of thing will often provide free board and food and you can either stay for a couple of months or join the organisation full time and make a difference for as long as you want. Not only will you get the chance to experience different cultures, but you will also be able to help those who cannot help themselves, and this is one of the noblest things you can do.

 GET NEW QUALIFICATIONS

 Another option is looking into a complete change in careers. If you are feeling worn out and bogged down in your current job, then researching alternatives to work abroad is something that might just be the antidote to your exhaustion.

 Many people opt to obtain a TEFL certificate that allows them to teach anywhere in the world. Countries such as Thailand and China typically offer a substantial stipend for your services and will even help with getting a working visa as well as providing a living allowance and help you find a place to stay.

 THE WALLET SWELLS

 Taking any of these opportunities will give you the chance to scratch your travel itch while ensuring that your bank account remains healthy. It doesn’t even have to be a substantial shift in your lifestyle, and you don’t need to say goodbye to home for that long at all.

 The prospect of moving away and living in another part of the world can be scary but doing it while you can will allow you look back later in life and realise it was one of the best decisions you ever made

Must Have Gifts from My Gift Stop

This is a sponsored post.

Where are you shopping for your Valentine's Day gifts this year?  I am shopping online at My Gift Stop.  They have luxury gifts for everyone and the prices are amazing.. My Gift Stop, is an online shop offering luxury goods that are dedicated to giving back to society, donating 5% of every sale to the global medical relief nonprofit, Direct Relief. They have beautiful earrings, pendants, watches(for men and women), shoes, and so much more.  I am going to share with my favorite gifts from My Gift Stop.

I love this Rose Gold Invicta Watch.  It screams Valentines Day to me and would make a great gift for that special lady in your life.  Teen daughter, wife, girlfriend, even your Mom would love this watch.   This is a luxury piece and you can get it from My Gift Stop at a fraction of the original price.  Let you lady walk around with this statement piece of a watch this Valentine's Day and I promise she will be a happy, happy person.

.


 I do LOVE a good smelling man!   I think cologne makes an excellent choice for a man's gift on Valentine's Day.   Hugo Red by Hugo Boss is an excellent choice, and it is priced right, too.  This is a no brainer.  Men, if you do not get this for Valentine's Day, buy it for yourself.  You will get lots of hugs!

I squealed with delight when I saw these Kate Spade sunglasses.  I love the burgundy rims , the color of the rims, and how stylish and sophisticated they look.  I really like the details on these sunglasses.    You know you could score some major brownie points if you bought these for your girl!

No matter who you have on your gift list this Valentine's Day, My Gift Stop has you covered.  They have luxury brands like Michael Kors, Kate Spade, Stacy Adams, Oakley, Ray Ban, Tom Ford and many more.   Leave no stone unturned when you shop, because the prices are AHHHHMAAAZZZZIIINNNG!  You will not have to shop at any other store this Valentine's Day because My Gift Stop has it all. Whether you are looking for luxury watches, shoes, hand bags, jewelry, sunglasses,  you can find the most luxurious brands at My Gift Stop.


They are also having an AWESOME contest, where you can win a $500 Gift Card.  Click on the picture below to enter. Please put Reviewz & Newz in the last blank on the entry form.  


So, tell me what you are buying from My Gift Stop this Valentine's Day?