For many people, traveling is about exploring new cultures, landscapes, cuisines and ideas. However, the cost of the trip is still one of the most important considerations when booking a vacation.

In fact, according to a survey, a one-of-a-kind online community of shoppers working together to shop smarter and save more, 81% of respondents listed total cost as their top consideration followed by a desire for kid-friendly experiences at the destination and discounts or deals on transportation and lodging.

Even amid reported concerns about inflation (56%), increasing flight costs (51%) and gas prices (49%), 84% of families plan to spend the same amount or more on travel this year as last. Among the respondents, 42% plan to spend between $1,501-3,000 and 15% plan to spend $5,000 or more on travel.

While traveling is undoubtedly an investment, it doesn’t have to break the bank. Consider these tips from Pete King, deal expert for Slickdeals, to save money as you begin planning your next excursion.

Set your budget with hidden costs in mind. When setting budgets, many people stop at the basics like transportation, accommodations and entertainment. Make sure to factor in additional costs such as pet care, food, checked luggage fees and airport and hotel parking so there are no surprises at the end of the trip.

Look for deals. Being open to a variety of destinations and travel dates can help you score the best deals. If you’re tired of switching between booking sites or searching online for bargains, consider browsing the latest travel deals on the Slickdeals Travel Page where community members share some of the best travel deals on the internet, which can save you time and effort when looking for savings on your trip. You can even set deal alerts to be notified when deals pop up for your desired destination.

Bring an empty water bottle. While Transportation Security Administration regulations don’t allow you to bring most fluids through security checkpoints in airports, packing an empty water bottle in your carry-on or personal item can save you from high costs inside the terminal. Once you’re through security, simply fill your bottle at the nearest water fountain. An added bonus: You can take the full bottle on the airplane to stay hydrated during the flight without having to rely on the small complimentary beverage on board.

Pack less than you think you’ll need. Many people overpack, and that can be a costly mistake. A single checked bag can cost as much as $50, and some airlines charge extra for a ticket that includes a carry-on. For a weekend trip, keep it simple with a carry-on or backpack, and for longer adventures, keep in mind nobody at your destination will likely know you wore the same jeans two days in a row.

Find the right rewards credit card. If you have a rewards credit card, you could get cash back when you make certain purchases. You could get a percentage back on groceries, travel, dining and more. For example, with a travel rewards credit card, you earn points or miles that can be redeemed for future travel plans. General travel cards earn points or miles on virtually every purchase, regardless of airline or hotel chain, while co-branded cards that align with a specific airline or hotel reward users with more points for loyalty spending and provide additional benefits like free checked bags or a free night’s stay on your card anniversary.

The key to a successful blog is good photos. Avoid these mistakes if you want to attract more readers.

While high-quality written content is the cornerstone of many blogs, a visually-appealing website can convince users to return. Sure, you can use stock photos—but taking your own will add an extra layer of authenticity.

Whether you use a smartphone or a proper camera, you can capture amazing shots for your blog by avoiding some of the most common mistakes. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what you should avoid if you want to make your website stand out.

1. Not Choosing Smaller File Sizes

Although your photos should be visually appealing, you must also think about website performance. Larger file sizes can result in delayed loading times, which can lead to users leaving your blog and going elsewhere instead.

You should upload pictures to your blog in JPEG format, and it’s a good idea to set yourself a file limit. Different themes can handle different uploading capabilities, so the number you pick will depend on your chosen theme and website builder.

Reducing your image file size is quite simple if you use Adobe Lightroom Classic. Upon exporting your picture:

• Go to File Settings after selecting File > Export in the toolbar at the top.
• Tick the Limit File Size To box.
• Choose your preferred file size limit.
• Click Export when you’re finished.

In addition to using Lightroom, you can reduce file sizes on a Mac by selecting the image and going to Quick Actions > Convert Image > Image Size.

2. Taking Photos That Don’t Narrate the Story

Taking pictures without thinking about what you’re trying to capture is one of the most common beginner photography mistakes. When getting images for your blog, you need to ensure that you improve your visual storytelling skills and each image provides some kind of value to the reader.

Capturing shots that narrate your story is easier than you think. For example, if you’re writing a travel blog, you can take pictures of the food you had at a restaurant or bakery you’re recommending to the reader.

3. Compressing Photos Too Much

While you should ensure that your file sizes aren’t too big, you also need to be careful and ensure that you don’t compress your images too much. Doing so will result in blurry pictures and are equally off-putting as lengthy loading speeds.

Like when choosing your file limits, what counts as too much compression will depend on your theme and website builder. But as a general rule of thumb, try to keep the quality at 80% as a minimum. You can try other methods to maintain image quality, such as cropping your pictures.

You can limit how blurry your images are by ensuring that you take sharp pictures with your camera beforehand. You’ve got plenty of options for fixing blurry images in your camera, so you don’t have to do the same in post-production later.

4. Not Picking a Consistent Style

Blogging requires that you build a closer connection with your audience, and one way you can do this is by choosing a consistent photography style across your website. You should also ensure that what you share on your social media platforms is similarly easy to recognize as yours.

Determining the style for your blog photos will often require some experimentation, but you can begin by picking two or three colors that fit your website’s mood. You can also pick an editing style that interests you; Lightroom allows you to create all kinds of presets, which will make it easier for you to edit your files in the future.

5. Not Considering Your Image Dimensions

Besides compressing your files too much, another contributor to blurry images on your blog is choosing the wrong dimensions for the photos on each page and in your blog posts. Image dimensions will vary from each site provider and theme, so it’s a good idea to check the requirements for each theme you choose.

6. Not Thinking About the Other Platforms You’ll Share Your Photos On

In addition to your blog, it’s worth choosing one or two social media platforms for growing your audience. You’ll need to choose networks where you’ll find your target audience, but it’s also important that you actually like the platforms you use.

Regardless of the social media that you choose to grow your blog, you should think about the different dimensions and layouts you’ll need when uploading images to those platforms. For example, if you plan on using Instagram, you might want to consider shooting in 4:5 and ensuring that you have enough space for cropping.

You may have to change your export settings when downloading your social media photos. Make sure you check the requirements for these.

7. Not Including People in Your Photos

One of the best ways to bring your blog posts to life is by including people in your images—whether that’s yourself or others. Doing so will help you make the reader feel like they’re in the moment with you and allow them to visualize the story you’re trying to tell much better.

If you don’t have anyone to take pictures of you, you can always get a tripod and capture photos of yourself.

You can also include your friends and family, along with trying street photography and other styles.

Make Your Blog More Visually Appealing

Taking excellent photos for your blog is about much more than simply clicking a button on your camera. You’ll need to consider image dimensions and ensure that you don’t negatively impact your website’s responsiveness by choosing files that are too big.

Having a consistent style is also a good idea, and you should strongly think about including people in your shots. These tips are a good starting point to make your blog more visually appealing; all that’s left for you is to get started!

Travelling can be a rewarding experience but you also need to take care of your diet. Here’s how you can have a more enjoyable trip without compromising your health.

When you’re planning a trip, there are many factors you have to take into consideration, according to your time and budget: destination, accommodation, transport, etc. But even once your tickets and rooms are booked, the planning does not stop. One aspect of travelling you should be paying special attention to is food. You might be looking forward to trying some amazing food once you reach your chosen spot.

But that is only one part of your vacation. You have to regularly consume something every few hours to keep yourself energised. And what you choose to eat and drink at those points can greatly impact your trip. After all, no one wants to fall sick on vacation! We have put together a list of key points you must remember when going out of town.

Here Are 8 Important Diet Tips To Keep In Mind While Travelling:

1. Stay properly hydrated

Always keep water with you while travelling and don’t forget to sip on it at intervals. When we go on a trip, our daily routine is disrupted and we need to ensure that our body is getting its basic needs. Apart from regular water, it is also a good idea to sip on natural drinks like coconut water and lemon water (with less sugar) as they can also help keep up your energy levels. If you’re travelling to a cold place, opt for herbal teas made using simple spices. You can also brew some yourself and carry it along in a thermos.

2. Avoid drinks high in caffeine

You might opt for tea, coffee and aerated beverages while travelling because they are conveniently available at most places. But one must avoid having too much of them as their caffeine content can cause dehydration. This might disrupt the balance of your system and lead to other issues. Similarly, alcohol should not be consumed in excess as it may later leave you feeling uneasy in more ways than one.

3. Keep fennel handy

Fennel is nothing short of a wonder spice. Also known as saunf (or badishep), many of us already know about its role as a digestive aid consumed post meals. But fennel also has cooling and detoxifying properties that can benefit you even more. Fennel helps combat feelings of nausea and does not irritate the body. This is why those suffering from motion sickness are often advised to chew these seeds while travelling.

4. Plain crackers can save the day

Wondering why anyone would want to eat such a flavourless food item? Well, if you’re prone to nausea while travelling, you would know that strong flavours can make you feel worse. Munching on plain, unsalted/ unsweetened crackers can help give your body some amount of starch without setting off a vomiting spell. Even if you don’t face such issues, carrying crackers can be a good idea. You can choose to pair it with some peanut butter or another healthy spread for a quick snack.

5. Replace chips with nuts

When going on a trip, we love loading up on junk food like packaged chips. In small quantities, this may be harmless. But remember that such foods have next to zero nutritional value. Rather, their additives and unhealthy fat content may lead to stomach and other problems. Hence, it is important to carry healthy snacks too. Opt for foods rich in fibre and protein, which are not too heavy on your system. Nuts are a wonderful choice because of their health benefits as well as their long shelf life and easy portability.

6. Balance indulgences with detox

Now, being careful does not mean you have to stay away from all the yummy food you come across. You must take advantage of trying local delicacies and unique dishes when you are travelling. You might also want to treat yourself to some of your guilty pleasures. But be mindful of what and how much you consume in a day. If you have an indulgent binge during lunch, opt for a light and simple dinner like khichdi. You should also sip on detox drinks if possible. If you have eaten too much oily food, there are specific steps you can take to recover.

7. Don’t skip breakfast

Some people may be restless to get started with sightseeing and ignore their breakfast. Some may do so due to other reasons like a lack of proper options. Either way, try your best to at least consume some amount of food in the morning. This will give you the nutrients as well as the energy required for you to truly enjoy your trip. Hunger not only makes us tired but also irritated. Starting your day right can make all the difference.

8. Plan your meals in advance

Some of us love being spontaneous on vacation. We like discovering things as we go and making decisions on the spot. But it never hurts to have a few backup plans in place. Have at least a rough idea of when and where you would be having your main meals of the day. For many people, having too long a gap between meals leads to acidity and a host of other problems. Precious time may be lost in simply deciding where to eat. So research and keep a few options ready before your trip.
Bookmark these tips and refer to them while planning your next vacation. We hope they help you have a great trip!

Planning the perfect Thailand vacation can be overwhelming, with so many incredible things to see and do. But with a little bit of planning and research, you can make your trip to Thailand unforgettable. Here are some tips for planning the perfect Thailand vacation in 2023.

1. Pick the right destination:

With so many beautiful places to explore in Thailand, it can be hard to decide which destination is right for you. Consider your budget, the type of activities you want to do, and the length of stay. Do you want to relax on the beach, explore the jungle, or explore the city? Decide which destination fits your vacation needs and interests. Research different destinations online to get a better idea of what each destination has to offer.

2. Book your flights:

When booking flights to Thailand, it is best to compare prices and book in advance to get the best deal. Thai Airways International, Bangkok Airways and Thai Smile are some of the most popular airlines for flights to Thailand, which generally land at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport or the smaller Don Mueang Airport. Be sure to keep an eye out for any special offers or discounts that may be available to help save money on your flight.

3. Book your accommodation:

Booking your accommodation in advance can help you save money and ensure you have a comfortable and safe place to stay. There are a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. Research different accommodation options online and read reviews to get an idea of what each accommodation has to offer.

Popular cities for tourists in Thailand include Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, all of which have a variety of accommodation options available. Budget-friendly hostels are great for those looking for a more affordable option, while luxury resorts are great for those looking for a more comfortable stay. In addition, vacation rentals are becoming increasingly popular in Thailand, allowing visitors to find their own space and enjoy the convenience of home. No matter what type of accommodation you are looking for, you are sure to find something suitable in Thailand.

4. Get your visa:

Travellers from certain countries may need to obtain a visa before visiting Thailand, depending on their nationality and length of stay. Tourists from certain countries, such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and countries in the European Union, are allowed to stay up to 30 days in Thailand without a visa. However, if visitors plan to stay longer, they will need to apply for a visa. Tourists can apply for a tourist visa, which is valid for 60 days and can be extended for an additional 30 days.

To apply for a visa, tourists will need to submit the necessary paperwork and documents to the Thai embassy or consulate in their home country. This typically includes a valid passport, passport photos, a completed visa application form, proof of funds, and proof of return travel. Additionally, a visa fee will be charged. Tourists should make sure to apply for their visa at least one month in advance of their trip to ensure that it is approved and ready in time for their travels.

5. Research the culture:

When visiting Thailand, it is important to be aware of the cultural norms and customs in order to have a respectful and enjoyable experience. One of the most important cultural norms is to show respect to the Thai people and their culture. This includes avoiding topics such as religion, politics, and the monarchy. It is also important to be aware of the Thai language and proper greetings. Learning a few simple words in Thai can go a long way in making your experience more enjoyable.

It is also important to respect the local customs and etiquette. For example, always take off your shoes when entering someone’s home. Additionally, dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or sacred sites. It is also important to be aware of the rules regarding public displays of affection. Generally, it is best to avoid any public displays of affection, such as hand-holding.

Finally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations. Be sure to research any laws or regulations that may be applicable to your situation before visiting. This will help to ensure that you have a pleasant and respectful stay in Thailand.

6. Pack appropriately:

The weather in Thailand is typically hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 65-90 degrees Fahrenheit (18-32°C). The monsoon season runs from June to October and is accompanied by heavy rains and strong winds. During the winter months (November to February), the temperatures are milder and the rainfall is less frequent. In the more mountainous regions, the temperatures can get quite cold, so it is important to bring warm clothing.

The dry seasons in Thailand are from March to May. During this time, the temperatures are more enjoyable and the rainfall is less frequent. However, it is important to note that during this time, the humidity is higher and can make it uncomfortable for travellers.

No matter what time of year you visit, it is important to plan for the weather and bring the necessary clothing and items. Make sure to pack light and breathable clothing, sun protection, and insect repellent. Additionally, bring any necessary items such as medications, toiletries, and any other items you may need.

7. Get travel insurance:

Travelling to Thailand can be an exciting and memorable adventure, but it’s important to protect yourself from unexpected medical or travel costs. Travel insurance can provide peace of mind and help you avoid costly out-of-pocket expenses. It can also cover expenses related to illness, injury, baggage loss or delay, and cancellation of trips. Make sure to read the policy carefully before purchasing to ensure you are covered for the activities you plan to do in Thailand. Additionally, check if your policy covers medical evacuation in case of an emergency. This can be invaluable if you need to be transported to a hospital for medical care.

With these tips, you can ensure that your Thailand vacation will be a memorable and enjoyable experience. Have fun and enjoy your trip!