Top 20 Travel Tips For You

People aren't born smart travelers. It's something that only comes with experience. In the beginning, you make a lot of mistakes. Then, one day, you begin to seamlessly move through airports and integrate yourself into new cultures like a fish to water.

I want to help you accelerate the process and help you avoid some mistakes (and I sometimes make a lot of them also), so I put together this list of 20 travel tips that I gathered in my experience and research, that will help you reach your full travel potential.

20 Travel Tips

1. Don't be scared of using a map.

Looking like a traveler isn't as bad as getting really lost and ending up in the wrong places. So get yourself a city guide once you arrived in a city.

2. Visit the local tourism office.

They know about everything going on in town. They can point you to free activities, special events happening during your stay, and everything in between. Use this resource.

3. Make extra copies important documents.

Always make copies of Passports, Insurance, Travel tickets and other important documents. Also don't forget to email a copy to yourself so you'll always have access to them, one way or another.

4. Lunchtime is the best time to visit landmarks.

The sites are almost empty and you'll have fewer crowds to fight.

5. Try new food.

Don't ask what it is. Just put it in your mouth and see if you like it. Explore the local cuisine and let yourself in a new culture. Isn't that the purpose of traveling? If you put your guard up, you might miss out on some unusual and delicious food.

6. Avoid Taxis.

They can be expensive. Try to learn how to get yourself around a city/town with local transportation (Trains, Bus and more).

7. Take city tours.

These tours will give you a good orientation and background of the city you are in.

8. Get a city pass.

If you are going to visit a lot of museums and other attractions in a short period of time, a city pass is going to save you money on admission.

9. Get vaccinated.

Because falling to an illness in a foreign country is not fun.

10. Get travel insurance.

Don't be foolish. If something goes wrong, you don't want to be swimming in bills. Travel insurance is the most important thing you get that you never want to use.

11. Take photos of and with people.

Lots of photos. Years from now, you'll want to look back on the adventures you had and those nights you can't remember and the people who made them memorable.

12. Always carry a lock.

They come in handy, especially when you stay in dorms and need to lock your stuff up.

13. Learn basic phrases in the language of your destination.

The locals will appreciate it and it will make your interactions easier.

14. Always have local cash.

Not every place takes credit cards. Especially important places like trains or buses.

15. Bring a charger adapter.

Countries have different size plugs and voltage. So if you want to use your phone or computer, make sure you can charge it.

16. Bring a travel first aid kit.

At least bring the following: ibuprofen (or other pain killers), decongestant, bandages, hydrocortisone cream. You will not believe how often it will come in handy

17. Contact your bank before travelling.

Advise your banks you will be traveling internationally to avoid your cards being cancelled when foreign transactions appear.

18. Always note your hotel address.

A great way to avoid becoming legitimately lost is to write down your hotel name, address, and room number on your phone or a notepad so that you always have something to refer back to.

19. Ask for suggestions.

Start asking locals for suggestions instead of always consulting the interwebs (it does help A LOT of the time, but sometimes it is best to just ask a local). They can tell you some great local insider tips and often will offer to show you around or at least take you to the place you're looking for.

20. Finally, wear sunscreen.

If I could offer you only one tip for the future, sunscreen would be it. Your Skin needs it.

Visit my blog for more helpful tips. http://www.Yprovement.com

By Ayaad Hassane

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The Rise of LED's In Auto Manufacturing

The popularity of LED lighting in many applications has seen major car manufacturers including Audi, Cadillac, BMW, Toyota, Mercedes-Benz and Ford offering colorful LED lights with new car models to attract customers.

Automotive lighting has seen few advancements in the past 30 years, instead relying on the widely used incandescent options. However, new LED options have emerged in recent years. LED is an abbreviation of light-emitting diode. It is a semiconductor that can change electrical energy into visible light. The light-emitting efficiency can reach 80%-90%. New, more intelligent LED options can now be seen in automotive electronic products, now known as the fourth generation car luminescence.

Compared with the traditional light bulb, LED's main advantage is its lifespan. First of all, LED light life can last up to 50,000 hours in theory. In practice, it may be closer to 20,000 hours. Therefore, with the use of LED options, it's possible to never need to change the lights for the life of the vehicle. Another advantage is that LED's have a fast response time and can be lit without delay. LED's start time is only tens of nanoseconds, much shorter than incandescent bulbs. LED's are also energy saving. LED brake lights and turn signals can directly change electrical energy into light energy in the lower drive current, making it an eco-friendly option, not needing any other power. In addition, they will only need less than a quarter of the power of an incandescent lamp. The small size and compact structure of LED's allow for use in places where traditional lights just could not fit.

Auto LED's can be divided into two categories, lamps and decorative lights. Lamps include standard applications like instrument lights, front and rear turning lights, brake lights, back up lights, fog lamps and reading lamps. Decorative uses mainly include color changing lights for the side or bottom of cars.

The Market Prospects of Light-Emitting Diodes

Although the LED light source is still a relatively new alternative to conventional incandescent light source, the technology has matured and is continuing to mature greatly. The only disadvantage is that in some cases LED's can be more costly upfront. However, with advancements in manufacturing and the rise of Chinese LED manufacturers, the hope is that LED's will become the goto lighting option for automotive manufacturers in the future. With so many advantages, LED's are almost certainly the future of auto lighting.

Visit BrandonSafetyLights for more LED options for business and commercial applications: http://brandonsafetylights.com

 

  

By Lydia Quinn

 

 

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Automotive Industry at a Glance

The World Automobile Industry is enjoying the period of relatively strong growth and profits, yet there are many regions which are under the threat of uncertainty. Carmakers look for better economies, market conditions which are ideal to have a successful stay in the industry. The automotive industry has a few big players who have marked their presence globally and General Motors, Ford, Toyota, Honda, Volkswagen, and DC are among them. It has also been suggested that automotive industry has accelerated more, after the Globalization period, due to easy accessibility & facilities among nations and mergers between giant automakers of the world.

Moreover, the advancements in industrialization led to a rise in the growth and production of the Japanese and German markets, in particular. But in 2009, the global car and automobile sales industry experienced a cogent decline which was during the global recession, as this industry is indirectly dependent on to economic shifts in employment and spending making, it vulnerable. While demand for new and used vehicles in mature markets (e.g. Japan, Western Europe and the United States) fell during the economic recession, the industry flourished in the developing economies of Brazil, Russia, India and China. Boost in global trade has enabled the growth in world commercial distribution systems, which has also inflated the global competition amongst the automobile manufacturers. Japanese automakers in particular, have initiated innovative production methods by adapting and modifying the U.S. manufacturing model, as well as utilizing the technology to elevate production and give better competition. The World Automotive industry is dynamic and capacious, accounting for approximately one in ten jobs in developed countries.

Developing countries often resort to their local automotive sector for economic growth opportunities, maybe because of the vast linkages that the auto industry of the country, has to other sectors. China is by far the largest market for sales followed by Japan, India, Indonesia, and Australia. Sales figures of 2005 to 2013 indicate that sales for vehicles in China doubled during this period, while Indonesia and India also benefited. However, there was slump in sales during this time in Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. Interestingly, this year competition in the truck segment has become more intense, with the three big U.S. automakers striving for supremacy in both performance and fuel economy. The Japanese aren't giving up, either, with both Toyota and Nissan launching new pickups in 2015.

India is the seventh largest producer of automobiles globally with almost an average production of 17.5 million vehicles with the auto industry's contribution amounting to 7% of the total GDP. It has been estimated that, by 2020 the country will witness the sale of more than 6 million vehicles annually. India is expected to be the fourth largest automotive market by volume in the world where, two-wheeler production has grown from 8.5 Million units annually to 15.9 Million units in the last seven years and tractor sales are expected to grow at CAGR of 8-9%, in next five years, making India a potential market for the International Brands. As 100% Foreign Direct Investment is allowed in this Sector, India is expected to have a speedy expansion, to, soon to become the largest automobile Industry. While India is second largest manufacturer of two- wheelers and largest of motorcycles, it is also estimated to become the 3rd largest automobile market in the world by 2016 and will account for more than 5% of global vehicle sales. As large number of products are available to consumers across various segments, providing a large variety of vehicles of all the types, manufacturers aim towards customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Following the FDI policy, entry of a number of foreign players with reduced overall product lifecycle and quicker product launches have become a regular occurrence in the automotive industry of the country. Indian auto market is seen as the potential market which can dominate the Global auto industry in coming years. Moreover, giant dealers and manufacturers are inclining towards the country because of ease of financial norms as well as an environment so conducive to support in their projects.

With Narendra Modi's Make in India Campaign, the automotive industry is expected to witness quite a few changes, where 800 Cr have been allocated in the Budget to promote the Energy and Hybrid Vehicles manufacturing. This move is expected to cut down the prices making these electric and hybrid vehicles cheaper and more eco-friendly. It is also expected that this move will curb down the carbon dioxide emissions to 1.5% till 2020. This program will subsidize the purchase of new hybrid and electric cars, as well as other vehicle types. It specifies incentives of up to 29,000 rupees for scooters and motorcycles, and up to 138,000 rupees for cars. Three-wheeled vehicles, light commercial vehicles, and buses will also be eligible for incentives of varying amounts as well.

The used cars sector in India has emerged as one of the major industries due to its easy accessibility and lower rate of interests. But growth in used car sales are lower than new car sales as people still prefer to purchase new cars as opposed to buying used ones. A big reason of this could be the fact that there is a reduced supply of used cars, and high prices of these used cars are pushing the consumers to opt for the low priced new cars. But despite of lower growth compared to new cars segment, used car industry has been showing a fast and steady growth. According to the industry analysts, the sales of used cars are expected to boost up in the next few years.

Till last decade, consumers were involved in unorganised sector of Used Vehicles industry, there were no organised players to assist the consumers in buying of used vehicles, and about 60% of used vehicle sales were customer to customer where there is a trust factor. The remaining sales were managed by the local dealers. But then in 2001, Maruti came with the first company of selling used cars in 2001- Maruti True Value. Despite the automobile industry witnessed slow sales numbers in the last few quarters, the used or pre-owned car segment is growing fast, and is likely to accelerate in future. In fact in the last fiscal year, more used cars were transacted, 10% more than the new ones, according to the assessment by Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. and Honda Siel Car India Ltd. With the organised players stepping in, the used cars market has benefited from fair deals, warranties, better retail network, credibility, transparency, easy availability of finances. These have all made buying a used car easy. Organised used car showrooms provide the platform to the prospective consumers to choose cars from various brands and segments. Car makers have realized the potential of used car market and are making conscious decisions to operate in the pre-owned car sector also. Besides exhibiting multiple brands, the branded used car retailers, also offer one-stop shop for all inquiries and grievances. All the major Car dealers have now established their pre-owned car segment retail showrooms, Maruti True Value, Ford Assured, Hyundai Advantage and Toyota U Trust are some of the major used car dealers.

Constant decline in fuel prices and better financial policies in the past year are the factors that are being expected to be the reasons for the number of new buyers to be increased in the market, which declined in 2013-14. But during this period, one segment that benefited from this decline was the used vehicle market, with increased awareness, financial reforms and organized firms. Most of these used cars buyers are younger people who prefer buying Pre-owned cars which come at lower prices and they get a good bargain for the same. Indian used vehicle market which is still, almost quarter of new vehicle market is growing at a rapid pace. The Pre-owned car sector is expected to grow by 15-18% in coming years.

Also with the rising in number of organized players have boosted the amount of confidence people are putting in buying a pre-owned car. These players not only offer a good line up of used cars but also offer finance & extensive vehicle check facility for 100% customer satisfaction.

The Automotive Industry is an important part of every economy as it is interrelated to growth of sectors of the economy. India as one of the progressing economy is resolving towards making its automobile industry more and more successful ultimately, linking it to overall development. With the Make in India Campaign and promotion of eco- friendly vehicles, India is expected to soon to become largest automobile industry globally. Used vehicle industry is expected huge gains with more and more people resolving to it along with the growth in the new car market. With more resources for the buyers and sellers, the automotive industry is expected to flourish meritoriously in coming future ultimately taking the country forward.

 

 

By Jyoti Jain  

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Accept Change and Reduce Your Stress

Everyone says they want to transformation but very few Really want to change. Change is the reality of life and whether we choose change or it chooses us we have to be uncomfortable for a short time. You can embrace the discomfort or choose to resist the changes. The real truth is that each day we grow and learn, each day our cells turnover and each day we make choices on how we live and perceive our lives. As our bodies change, our minds grow and our perception of this process effects our happiness. The default mode of our mind is to look at what doesn't work in our lives and then have a desire to change those things.
So how do you go from what you know isn't working or you don't like, to actually embracing change and taking consistent action. The reality is that the only way to make real change is consistent action. In fact, Darren Hardy has a book called "The Compound Effect" where he talks about taking small actions which over time can bring compounded results.

If you feel inspired to make a change, you are already ahead of the game. Here are some steps you can take to move your forward.

1. Make a decision to change for the long haul. 

Ask yourself if you are truly committed to doing the work to change. This means that you need to commit to change, make a decision, if you decide not to change that is also a decision.

2. Ask yourself why you want to change. 

If you connect to the reason you want to change then you will be able to go back to this reason when your ego mind starts to resist.

3. Now that you have connected with why you want to change, lets get specific. 

Craft a SMART Goal. Break your goal down to specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and timely.

4. Now, break down your goal into small daily or weekly action steps and put them in your calendar.

5. Celebrate the small accomplishments that get you towards your goal. 

Celebrate your efforts and your willingness to engage with the process. Life is a journey, not a destination so celebrating along the way for your efforts is essential to stay motivated.

6. If you get off track, connect with your why and get right back on!

I hope this gives you some actionable steps to take so you can make some changes by the end of 2016.

My passion is empowering entrepreneurs to live their life purpose. Making life changes takes courage, commitment and support. My commitment is to help you Transform, Connect, and Destress... Live your Purposeful Life! Empowering you to move past your stressed and overwhelmed life into a life of ease and flow moving towards fulfilling your dreams, desires and goals. Email at kavitalifecoach@gmail.com for a free consultation.

 

  

By Kavita C Melwani

 

 

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