When you visit a new destination, one of the most important and exciting things you can do is take great pictures. You have saved enough and are ready to spend on the trip to have the best moment of your life. So, why not preserve these memories in photographs? You must ensure you don’t lose the pictures since you might never repeat those moments. Therefore, ensure every picture is safe every time you press the shutter. Losing your precious pictures is the last thing you want, yet some people lose them when traveling. Don’t let this happen to you. Try these tips and hints to ensure your pictures will be safe throughout your trip.

Carry an External Hard Disk

Download your pictures to a laptop and ensure you also back up to an external hard drive. Some memories cannot be recovered. That is enough to ensure you have an external hard drive every time you travel.

Utilize Online Storage

There are reliable online storage platforms you can utilize to protect the photos. Companies like Amazon and Dropbox have reliable storage solutions you can use to save your photos. However, you will need an internet connection. So, we recommend backing up to online storage every time you get to the hotel.

Format the SD Card

Before you start using your SD card, make sure it is clean. It ensures the card has enough space and has no viruses that might corrupt the photos. Learn how to clear SD card on Mac to create more space for your trip. It is crucial to keep the card clean until the next time you need to take pictures.

Back-Up Your Old Photos

Before you clear your memory card, back up the old pictures. It is also recommended to back up the pictures every time you return to the hotel room. This way, you can start the next shoot knowing your pictures are safe. It is understandable to go back to the hotel feeling tired and not wanting to do anything afterward. However, protecting your photographs is worth a little effort.

Develop a Saving System

The best way to ensure you don’t lose your pictures is to create a system of saving them. Decide how you will save the pictures before you go to the next scene. A system will keep you organized and ensure you don’t lose any moment you have captured.

Don’t Keep All the Pictures in One Place

In simple terms, don’t keep your pictures in one memory card, even if it has enough space left. It means that once you lose the card, you lose all the pictures you have taken throughout the trip. So, consider buying smaller memory cards to have other options if you lose one. It is also advisable not to erase your images after backing up. That way, you will have your pictures in three places.

Bring an Extra SD Card

SD cards are now affordable, so that you can bring an extra one to your trip. An extra SD card ensures you have your pictures in different places and sufficient space to take more pictures.

A Quick Roundup

These are simple methods you can use to ensure your photographs are safe. Always back up before heading out or erasing them from the card. Save them in different locations and create a system of saving them.

First of all, you have to adjust yourself to an unfamiliar environment, which can play havoc with your daily routine.

Going on a business trip can be exciting as well as intimidating, particularly for those who are venturing out in the world of corporate travel for the first time and wish to return with a lasting impression.

However, crossing different time zones at a moment’s notice to foster the company’s name is not an easy task, despite the thrills associated with brokering a good deal.

First of all, you have to adjust yourself to an unfamiliar environment, which can play havoc with your daily routine. Then one has to confront the ramping up of security at airports where there are geopolitical tensions brewing.

Fortunately, with proper preparation, there is a way out from these high-pressure situations, providing you plan your journey in a way to ensure a seamless travel experience from start to finish.

So here are five tips that help newcomers ensure smooth executive-level travel that will not only allow them to focus on work but at the same time keep their bosses happy as well.

# 1) Know your destination well

Doing adequate research on the destination you intend to visit well in advance is the best way to ensure your business trip is fruitful. Having sufficient knowledge of the place will help in resolving all the nitty gritty that make business travel cumbersome.

Ensure that you know about the hotel accommodation you are going to stay in, especially the amenities they offer like Wi-Fi, spa and gym. Compare all the accommodation options suited for business travellers on sites like CozyCozy.

Learn a bit about the country you are visiting, especially if it is your first time. Understanding their customs, etiquette and language can come in quite handy in striking business deals.

# 2) Prepare an itinerary

Traveling for business is totally different from the spontaneous planning required for leisurely tourist trips as it requires an organisation’s time and money.

A planned itinerary is the blueprint for a successful business trip, so include all the main activities that you intend to execute on the journey with a complete time-bound break-up. Share a copy of this with someone in the family back home so that you can be traced, if and when needed.

Budget your trip beforehand, load the amount needed on your forex card, and lock the conversion rate of the currency of the destination.

# 3) Pack smart

With all the conferences, meetings, dinners and lunches you might have, packing right for the trip will do you the world of good. Carry an appropriate outfit for each occasion and pack them in separate packing cubes in order to carry just the clothes you may need.

Add some exclusive travel-sized toiletries to the list and place them in a handy carry bag, which can be easily accessed during security checks. Not only will it save space in your bag but also save valuable time at the airport.

Pencil in some ironing time before you pack because there is nothing more embarrassing than having to attend a meeting in wrinkled shirts and pants.

# 4) Don’t forget the gadgets

Gadgets are an important element on a business trip, as they make it easy for you to work and connect with friends and families at home.

Remember to pack your phone, laptop, and universal adapter as you will be working from both the office and the hotel room, and speaking with loved ones during free time.

# 5) Other key points to consider

• Make a checklist of your tickets, passport, hotel bookings at least a week in advance
• Book flights, accommodation, transport in advance to avoid a price surge, and to reduce cost
• Carry your prescription medicine, and be prepared for emergency and illness
• Knowing your transfer time to and fro from the airports is important in an important step that helps in avoiding last-minute commute-related panic

As South Africa observes Women’s Month, the spotlight shines on a travel trend that has gained prominence largely among women: solo travel.

The statistics for female solo travel in 2022 disclosed that a notable 84% of individuals journeying alone were women, affirming their dominant role as trailblazers in the realm of independent exploration.

Setting forth on solitary journeys is exhilarating and liberating, allowing individuals to venture into novel landscapes, connect with unfamiliar faces and uncover more about their own selves.

This expedition presents an avenue for independence and self-reliance, all while immersing in assorted cultures. Still, and particularly for female explorers, the prospect of solo travel can evoke apprehension due to its multitude of concerns and considerations.

In the year 2022, the Female Solo Travel Statistics revealed that an overwhelming 84% of solo travellers worldwide were, indeed, women, showcasing their continuing prominence as pioneers of independent voyages.

According to Sadudee Sangnil, the director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand in London, this substantial percentage of solo female travellers underscores the significance of women arming themselves with the requisite knowledge about solo travel, serving as crucial preparation before embarking on such expeditions.

‘Solo travelling as a woman means having to leave your comfort zone, which can be both thrilling and intimidating at the same time – especially for first-time female travellers. Doing enough research builds confidence in your decisions, it helps you trust your instincts even more while embracing the opportunities that come with exploring the world.’

She adds that when you travel alone, you become responsible for so many things, such as your own safety, wellbeing and enjoyment, which can be very empowering.

Sadudee recognises the strength, courage and independence of solo female travellers worldwide and is pleased to offer five useful tips to empower women to travel confidently and safely.

Research and plan ahead

Knowledge is key when it comes to solo travel. Taking time before departure to investigate the places and standards of your destination isn’t just fascinating but significant. That involves creating an itinerary that includes a list of the best place to visit as a solo traveller, important contact information, addresses and emergency numbers to ensure you are well prepared.

Understand the local culture

The biggest undertaking before any trip should be understanding the local customs and cultural norms of any country you will be visiting. Often people offend locals or run into trouble for not acting appropriately. For example, Thailand is a religious country with many religious sites which require people not to expose too much skin; it is, therefore, important to be aware of information like this as solo travellers may be visiting all these for the first time.

Know how to get around

The best part about travelling is that you want to move around but it is important to understand how local public transportation works, for your own peace of mind and safety. Countries like Thailand are well set up for solo travel, and it is fairly easy to get around using hotel transfers, internal flights, tuk-tuks, boats and cabs.

Join activities and excursions

Participating in organised group tours and activities can be an excellent and safe way to meet like-minded travellers and other solo travellers too. Activities like island hopping in Phi Phi Islands in Thailand are generally a full-day experience and involve snorkelling, swimming, trying out the popular longtail boat and Thai food among other things. Additionally, many tour operators offer female-friendly experiences in Thailand as they understand that women often have different needs or expectations when they travel.

Relax and enjoy

Solo female travel provides the ultimate sense of independence as it empowers you to overcome any challenges that lie in your path without assistance, enhancing your self-worth and mental stability. Travelling is a special life experience as it allows you to disconnect from the stresses of everyday life. Allow yourself to unwind and appreciate various experiences such as culture, unique cuisine, lifestyle, people and many more.

Make the most of your summer vacation with these tips

The last thing we want while travelling is to fall sick. While summer travels are fun and exciting, we have to keep certain things in mind to avoid falling sick. For this reason, we checked with some leading Indian health experts to learn about simple fitness and nutrition tips to follow while on a summer vacation. Their tips will minimise the risk of falling ill during or after your travels due to the heat and other reasons. Here’s their best advice.

6 tips to stay fit while travelling this summer

1. Hydrate

Staying hydrated while travelling is essential. Proper hydration is necessary to maintain your energy levels. “Hydrate yourself by sipping warm to hot water to reduce the accumulation of toxins in the body. Staying hydrated keeps the vata and kapha doshas well balanced, supports the digestive system, and is beneficial for the throat. One teaspoon of organic honey with a glass of water also helps aid digestion. Fresh fruits like mango, pomegranate, and melon also keep us hydrated,” says Dr Manjula, senior Ayurveda doctor, Shreyas Retreat, a Relais & Châteaux member.

“Carry a reusable water bottle and consciously drink at least 8-10 glasses daily. To make it more enticing, infuse your water with refreshing flavours like lemon, cucumber, or mint. Hydration supports overall well-being, aids digestion, regulates body temperature, and helps control cravings.” adds Maitri Trivedi, nutritionist, Pure Nutrition Naturals.

2. Plan Ahead

Before you begin your journey, do your research on the food and exercise facilities available at your destination. “Travel with a tailored food and workout plan. Stick to 5-6 small meals per day. Start your breakfast with a complex cereal such as wheat flakes or muesli with low-fat milk and lean protein such as egg whites or whey protein. Remember to carry your daily supplements like whey powders and healthy nuts such as walnuts and almonds for when you feel hungry between meals,” states nutritionist and lifestyle educator Karishma Chawla.

3. Eat a Balanced Diet

​​While travelling, try to make healthy food choices whenever possible. Being mindful about what you’re eating while travelling will go a long way in helping you stay fit. “While travelling this summer, I recommend a few golden rules. These rules include keeping the food portions small, avoiding anything that has cream or is deep fried, and starting your meals with soups and salads. Moreover, I recommend consuming GPRS (Grilled, Poached, Roasted, Steamed) foods. This will help you control the excess calories and weight gain from eating out for long periods,” remarks Nyela Kapadia, fitness expert, founder of WWN, and co-founder of Intermittent Fasting Mindful Living.

“Digesting the food we eat when travelling is difficult, especially if we do not eat enough fibre-rich food, which is why we should eat small balanced meals. Your meals should contain fruits and veggies instead of carbs. Fatty foods like fries, burgers, and pizzas, should be avoided to a certain extent. Sugary items should be avoided or consumed in minimal quantities. Soft drinks and caffeine should also be avoided as they affect hydration,” mentions Reshma AM, senior dietitian and consultant nutritionist, SPARSH Hospital.

4. Stay Active

When embarking on summer travels, prioritise your physical and mental well-being. “I recommend starting your day with a rejuvenating yoga practice, specifically focusing on sun salutations. This dynamic sequence not only helps strengthen and stretch your entire body but also aligns you with the vitality of the rising sun. By connecting with nature and your inner self through yoga, you will enhance your energy levels, boost flexibility, and promote a positive mindset throughout your journey,” adds Dr Suraj of Niraamaya Surya Samudra, a Relais & Châteaux member.

While travelling, stay active, whether you are indoors or outdoors. “You can do a quick 30-minute indoor workout of squats, planks and pushups in your hotel room or simply take a walk. Stick to the basics and focus more on your form,” remarks Prachi Helekar, founder, Helekars Pilates Studio.

5. Eat Hygienic Food

“Diarrhoea is common while travelling since we are eating food from outside, which causes gut microbiome changes which could result in acute food poisoning. Moreover, food poisoning cases rise in the summer months due to food spoiling in the heat. To prevent this, ensure proper hygiene and eat from clean places. But another useful trick is to take S Boulardii during your travels. It is a yeast probiotic that is great at fighting toxins and significantly reduces cases of diarrhoea,” states Mugdha Pradhan, nutritionist and founder, iThrive.

6. Prioritise Rest and Sleep

Finally, while travelling this summer, ensure that you are prioritising rest and sleep. During the day, balance active and rest periods and at night, aim to sleep for at least seven hours daily.