What Is Invoice Factoring?

Invoice Financing for Small Business

Account Receivable Factoring is another term for Invoice Factoring: A type of invoice financing in which you sell a portion or all your business’s outstanding invoices to a third party as a means to increase cash flow and income stability.

With invoice factoring, the business would sell their accounts receivables to improve their working capital, which would give the business instant funds which could be used to cover business expenses.

The company gets the rest of the value of the invoice as a third-party factoring company collects payments from its customers. A factoring company pays most of an invoice upfront to a business, with the balance being paid when the invoice is paid by the customer, less their fee for the factoring. Only companies who issue invoices to customers are eligible to receive a factoring loan, so the factoring process begins when your company does business with the customer.

In businesses that are eligible, working with a factoring company effectively sells payments that you are owed on unpaid invoices, and transfers your risk to the factoring company should your clients make a late or default payment on an invoice.

Invoice Factoring Australia

Larger companies typically prefer to use recourse factors, as they can afford to return funds that they received by selling the outstanding invoices back to the factoring company should their client not make a payment.

Most factoring agreements contain a restitution clause, meaning that a firm that sold an invoice is required to pay back part or all an upfront cash payment if a customer does not pay. If an invoice goes unpaid, unless there is a no-recourse clause, the selling company generally must pay back the factoring company for any advance cash.

Known as a discount rate, a factoring fee is what you pay to borrow money from a bill financing company. Factoring fees, both fixed and variable, generally range between 0.50 percent and 5% for each month that an invoice remains unpaid.

Once a factor has collected from your final client under the standard terms for payment, it releases the rest of the invoices value back to you, less a small factoring fee — usually between one and five percent.

Once you are approved to work with a factor, you can sell off your unpaid receivables to increase working capital and avoid delays from longer-term payments.

With a factoring agreement, you typically factor every approved invoice sent to approved customer companies, no matter the amount of credit outstanding on your business. While factoring generally allows you to borrow against any unpaid invoices that you send to approved clients, invoice financing for small businesses has an underwriting processthat is far more similar to traditional lending products.

Instead of offering a term loan, which is a lump sum, factors will essentially buy the invoices from your company. The invoices themselves serve as collateral, so you do not need to worry about providing property, equipment, or other expensive forms of collateral.

Invoice Factoring Australia wide is one of the easiest types of funding for businesses to qualify for, and it allows you to receive cash very quickly — far quicker than most customer companies will pay out on invoices. While invoice factoring involves higher interest rates than many other types of business funding, the right factoring company can be an excellent partner in giving you fast access to the cash you are already making on work that helps you run and grow your company. Invoice factoring, also known as Account Receivable Factoring, gives small businesses a way to access working capital quickly by turning unpaid client invoices into cash.

A factoring provider makes an offer on your customers invoices, giving you access to much of your invoices cash value instantly, instead of waiting weeks or months for payment. Once you have your factoring arrangement set up and your customers keep paying on time, this process can be repeated over again, maximizing your cash flow and growing your company. After verifying your customers creditworthiness, a factoring company advances as much as 100% of your invoice, providing you with immediate cash flow for use on business needs.

Invoice factoring involves selling your unpaid invoices to a third-party company so the company can increase cash flow, either to finance operations or to pursue growth opportunities. To maintain bill payments and payroll funding, a business-to-business (B2B) business may seek invoice factoring, even if the company has limited credit or poor credit. Instead of working with banks or lenders, a small business owner can partner with a third-party called a factoring company (also known as simply factoring) to access funds by factoring unpaid invoices.

Your small business accepts these terms, then the invoice factoring company says it will pay you $24,000 in total for your accounts receivable. Assuming that the creditor gets all the money it is due on the outstanding invoice, then it sends the remaining 15% to 30% of the invoice amount back to the business, with interest and/or fees paid by the invoice factoring business.

What Is Debtor Finance

Invoice Finance

Debtor financing involves borrowing of funds for the purpose of keeping the company running, to develop the company. Also, debtor financing is a broad description describing the type of financing which uses the traded receivables as collateral to secure the loans. It really helps through the form of cash advances or a line of credit for the business, which is secured by the value of the unpaid bills in a company as accounts receivables book. Businesses sell outstanding invoices on accounts receivables to the receivables financing company to get access to needed working capital.

When businesses need to unlock cash flow, selling unpaid invoices may be an option for third-party lenders, which will advance funds based on the value of these invoices. Businesses can opt for debtor finance, or invoice finance, to immediately unlock money that is owed them on unpaid accounts receivable. For businesses looking to extract funds for uncollected invoices, debtor financing provides a convenient option for mitigating company risks and providing stable cash flows.

Debtor Finance

By funding invoices that are not paid quickly, debtor financing speeds up your income–it increases working capital and gives your business the funds it needs to pay suppliers, salaries, or other expenses. 

A factoring firm advances 80%-85% of invoice value once an invoice is submitted for funding. You send an invoice to a finance company; they will give you a loan of up to 95% of invoices value.

The customer gets 80-85% of the total value of a group of invoices as available funds. When a client pays the invoice into a designated factor account, the factor deducts their fees, interest and advances on the amount sent in, then pays the remainder back to the business. If an invoice or accounts receivable remains unpaid for any longer than is specified in the debtors financing agreement, the factor has recourse against the company for funds that were advanced, meaning that it may recover money from the company.

With factoring, the factor (the institution who advances funds on invoices) participates in company management, including sending statements to a company’s customers and calling them, as needed, either to confirm invoices and deliveries or to monitor debts which are past due. The fees involved in Factoring and Discounting vary depending on the value of the invoices, the length of the financing arrangement, your customers credit rating, and the type of debt being financed. Within the scope of discounting and factoring, there are two major types of debtors financing services, differing by the type of invoice used to access funds.

Unlike invoice factoring, your business continues to manage the invoice bookkeeping and collections, meaning that invoice discounting is typically best for larger companies that have their own in-house credit and accounting departments. Generally, the invoices are not audited by a funding provider in invoice discounting, as your company’s collection and handling of the invoices is handled internally. Invoice discounting can provide privacy insofar as your customers do not or cannot tell if you are using a financing company for the collection of invoice payments.

If you prefer to keep your financing relationships confidential, invoice discounting arrangements may offer a way of obtaining financing without disclosing that the financing company is involved. If you need an ongoing funding source because, say, your company is growing rapidly, invoice discounting could be a good fit, if you are capable of managing the collection of payments. Because there are no interest charges or other costs associated with setting up other types of finance, invoice financing can often be more cost-effective than taking out an overdraft or an unsecured business loan.

If you can leverage money tied up in your debtors account to power your companies growth, invoice finance could be an efficient funding solution. Debtor financing is a form of corporate financing that allows businesses to overcome the cash flow issues that might hold them back. For start-ups and established businesses, debtor financing can be used to cover bills, negotiate discounts on payments in advance with suppliers, and provide net terms to attract new customers.

Why Staining Your Deck Is Important

clear decking oil

Painting and staining have benefits that increase the durability and quality of your deck space, but one option is probably best suited to your situation. You can stain your deck with things such as black timber stain. It is important to compare your deck paint options with paint before concluding how best to select wood. Regardless of what you want to protect your deck with, it’s important to prepare it appropriately before applying paint or stain, this can be done with clear decking oil.

Your professional deck builder will recommend instead of painting the deck every year, let the wood turn naturally grey over time. If your deck is wood, you will need to use deck paint to finish the surface based on recommendations unique to the type of wood used.

All wood must be thoroughly cleaned before painting, whether it is a new deck or an old deck that has been exposed to the elements and needs to be repainted. To keep the decking board looking good and extending the life of the wood, it should be painted every two to three years.

While wood stain does not cover the wood in the same way as paint, wood stain on the deck acts as a barrier between moisture and wood. Just like paint on your facade, deck stain can help prevent moisture from entering the wood.

Stain helps protect your deck from moisture and pests, helping to avoid costly problems such as mould, mildew and wood decay that could otherwise cause sagging, cracking, and even deterioration if the damage is severe enough.

Deck spray paint protects the wood from mould, mildew, moisture and rot, ultraviolet rays, and sunlight. Stains can retain moisture but cannot protect the wood from sunlight. 

Applying a high-quality wood stain, to the deck prevents sunlight from fully penetrating the wood and ensures the durability of the deck. A high-quality stain will seal the structure of the wood, so moisture does not seep into the terrace and does not cause rotting.

If you’re looking for a full wood finish, you need to consider the difference between a solid wood stain and a deck paint. If your deck is made from beautiful and expensive wood, you can use a clear stain to accentuate the texture and texture.

Do not reapply more than two times as over-finishing of the deck can promote flaking due to moisture retention in the wood. Horizontal surfaces wear out faster and can be finished first if you don’t want to go through the entire deck painting process.

On an old terrace, before painting, it is necessary to remove dirt, grey from the sun, mould and old stains.

Dyeing a new log will give the wood a more even colour or tone while sealing will help maintain its natural colour. Sealing the flooring will protect the wood from cracking, cracking, moisture, mildew and decay, while maintaining the colour and texture of the wood.

Wood flooring sealant is not the same as wood stain, although both will protect the wood from the elements.

How To Use Your Talents To Travel

melbourne migration

Some travel agents have worked with the same client for years and developed great relationships that make it easier for them to choose the product they like.

If you don’t want to ask directly, study and think about the compliments you usually get for what you do. That’s right, the best way to get to know yourself and your talents is to invest in diverse experiences. Spend some time thinking about what you liked and why, and that will be your first clue to where your career can go.

These could be aspects of your current job (finding titles for the next release of a product, working with the graphic design team on graphics for an upcoming announcement), or they could be part of your personal life – being with your kids, blogging, or helping you. a friend, for example, creates a business plan.

Whatever it is, it most likely has to do with talent or interest, which could easily become transferable work skills, help with Melbourne migration or even your next career. Maybe you can easily make people laugh or inspire others with your artistry.

You should look for ways to use your talents to help and please others in your work or the work you do. In this way, you serve others and fulfill your duty to develop your talent. If people thank you for what you did for them, they are grateful that you used your talent – something they cannot do on your own – to help them.

If you think you have a talent but are not sure how to use it, consider how to benefit others. If you do this, others will be able to feel your love and enthusiasm for it and will enjoy your talents with you. Even if you share your enthusiasm with others, you can realize the shortcomings of your talents and the areas that can be improved. If you like to write books, when you share your enthusiasm, you will notice that impressive vocabulary and ease of use are essential skills to develop your talents.

If your talent is a little less conventional – you may be good at numbers or coding – then find a way to translate it into work or a way to migrate by using a Global Talent Visa 858.

Whatever you know, you can save money while travelling by helping hosts around the world with your special skills. Remember, these are just a few of the skills you can use while travelling. Start thinking about how your travel experience can help you find your next job.

You will be glad to know that travelling can teach you many valuable things that will only improve your career. 

But experienced travellers are those who can acquire specific skills, and travel becomes easier no matter where they go. There are many courses and skills that travellers learn abroad, many of which can be applied in the workplace.

Aspiring travellers will simply write these skills as character-shaping, but experienced travellers know how to turn them into assets to make them competitive in the job market. By talking about these skills and telling anecdotes from travel interviews, you will undoubtedly stand out among those who have never risked leaving their hometown.

As you talk about your journey, think about the skills you have gained through this experience that you can apply to your work. I hope this article helped you explain the skills you need to become a travel agent and how to be a successful long-term travel agent. 

How To Travel To Melbourne

melbourne migration

Foreign travellers with confirmed flights to Melbourne must complete an online Victoria Quarantine Form before travelling to Australia.

Yes, if you have been in the border area in the past 14 days and have not visited a COVID-19 hotspot outside the border area, you will be able to visit the person in a hospital, nursing facility or accommodation service. 

In addition, people crossing the border to enter Victoria for any important reason such as Melbourne migration, should not travel outside of what is reasonably necessary to carry out such activities. It is possible to enter Victoria with a Global Talent Visa 858. 

At the end of the 7-day window, flights from Australia will switch to red flights, but this may not happen immediately and travellers will have to wait for more information on possible flight availability.

If you have been in a high-risk location in Queensland, New South Wales, ACT, South Australia, the Northern Territory or Tasmania and must be quarantined for 14 days, you may not be eligible to enter Victoria.

Victoria Government Research The Melbourne Service has an online resource that can help you get the latest travel tips for Victoria with a list of FAQs and support programs.

So far, only the highly vaccinated states of New South Wales and Victoria, where Australia’s largest cities Sydney and Melbourne are located, have eased restrictions on foreign entry. 

If people enter Victoria from New South Wales without exception, they will be arranged for a return flight or a mandatory 14-day quarantine under the COVID-19 Quarantine Victoria (CQV) plan. Those who purchased travel tickets before July 10, 2020 do not need to pay the quarantine fee. 

If you are planning to visit the Victoria region, you can travel by train or V / Line bus. If you are in a quarantine destination, you must also wear a mask when travelling to the quarantine facility.

New Zealand suspended its agreement with Australia on non-quarantine travel for at least eight weeks, with a revision in September. 

But as the vaccination launch in Australia accelerated in September and October, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said that citizens and permanent residents who received both vaccinations would be allowed to travel abroad and return home from Monday, and would also remove entry quotas.

How to stay safe in Melbourne Melbourne is an incredibly safe place to pack and travel, even if you are travelling alone or travelling alone.

Exercises that you can do on your holiday

exercise on holiday

It is hard enough to exercise as part of your normal routine, but when you are on a holiday, your workout and exercises tend to be long forgotten. However, stopping your exercise during your holiday can make it even harder to get back into a fitness routine when you come back home. But no one wants to stress on their holiday, right? And keeping to our regular workout schedule when we are elsewhere can result in more stress. Yet, staying active even when on your holiday will ensure that you have plenty of energy, reduce the tension, help lose some extra calories you ate along the way. It can even help ease jet lag. If you’re lucky enough to stay at a hotel with a luxury day spa, your problem is pretty much solved! But if your accommodation doesn’t offer a gym, you might need to get a bit creative. 

Here are a few tips to help prepare yourself and provide workouts that you can do, even on your holiday:

When you are going on a holiday, planning ahead is a good thing to do. Take your time in figuring out your options so you can be ready. Here are a few ideas to look at:

  • Search for walking parks and trails nearby
  • Check out hotels that have an exercise room
  • If you are staying with family, ask them if they have any fitness equipment
  • Talk to your family and see if they will accompany you on doing something active
  • Plan very simple workouts that you don’t need much space or equipment for. 
  • Plan your workout schedule beforehand, even if you need to change the plan it still shows you have made a commitment to your fitness routine
  • Plan to squeeze in exercises where you can
  • If you have time to rest in your room before heading out to dinner, check out YouTube for some fitness workouts that don’t need any equipment, and sneak in a quick session.
  • Book an activity at your hotel. For example, take a helicopter flight over wineglass bay (if in Tasmania), and do some hiking on the beach. 

Be prepared

Plan for a worst-case scenario, like staying in a basement that has no equipment. Alternatively, imagine a case where you may only have 10 mins to workout. 

Bring your workout plan with you and make sure you only have easy exercises, for example, 10 exercises that you do for 1 min each (like lunges and squats for example). You can even research holiday workouts online, where people from all over the world put up how they exercise and keep active during their holidays.

What to pack 

  • Pack your resistance bands. They are small and compact, and you can do a few quick exercises with them wherever you are
  • If you have a laptop, bring it along with some workout videos or stream videos with fitness routines (without equipment) online.
  • If you have any other small, compact equipment, take it with you if you can. That way you can workout in your room or sneak off to a park nearby whenever you can.
  • Take your running shoes with you. They are good to have for any holiday, and you may even get a chance to slip out for 20mins and go for a jog. 

Holiday workouts

If you are looking for some workout ideas, there are many options that you can have a look at. If you want to do a workout in your hotel room, you can stream it on YouTube. Some good things to search for (that usually brings up some free videos) are:  

  • 10-minute cardio blast
  • No equipment travel exercises
  • Low impact cardio blast
  • Fat burning circuit
  • Travel power strength circuit 
  • Resistance bands

Be realistic and don’t be too hard on yourself. You won’t always be in charge of your schedule during a holiday, but if you do your best, you should feel proud and happy regardless of how many times you work out. You can remind yourself about all the good your exercises will do for your body and health. That’s a great way to keep up the motivation, and make sure you get back to your normal routine as soon as you get home.

Best Fine Dining in Hobart

Tasmania is a destination that prides itself on its fine dining especially in Hobart. With many lush locales nearby which churn out a few of the greatest raw produce in Australia, it is only natural that lots of gifted chefs and restaurant owners at Tassie’s biggest city ought to take these components and turn them in to a few of their most delectable dishes throughout many different cuisines that you are most likely to encounter during your visit to the Emerald Isle. While locally-caught fish is an integral specialty, the likes of veggies, cheeses and other dairy products, meats of all types and a whole lot more from areas like the Huon and Tamar Valleys perform their own part to round outside Hobart’s tastes available. Hobart’s best restaurants run the gamut of cost spectrums, and its cafes and much more casual dining offerings supply some outstanding cuisine if you are seeking to eat a budget or dab to get a luxury dining event. However, with such a huge array of quality restaurants to select from, which Hobart restaurants would be the very best of the best? We break down our listing of the Top Restaurants in Hobart and summarize what makes them a joy for those taste buds in detail below.

The Soup Stop

Cuisine: Indian

Do not allow the name to fool you — Hobart’s The Soup Stop is a lot more than a street seller selling noodle soup in a cup on chilly days. Among the very best bang-for-the-buck Indian dining experiences you’re ever likely to encounter, while the restaurant excels in a broad selection of soups, it is far from a one-trick-pony. Boasting an amazing selection of Indian street foods which range from light snacks to full size traditional Indian dishes at a ridiculously low cost, this is the perfect spot to visit Hobart if you are looking an excellent feed which will not leave your wallet in tears.

Cultura Espresso Bar & Restaurant

Cuisine: Italian

Walking the line between fine dining and cost is a challenging proposition for many restaurant owners, however, it is something the proprietors of Cultura Espresso Bar and Restaurant in Hobart do exceptionally well, offering excellent Italian food at a central place that is comfy and comfy. The number in the menu is remarkable, and the number of dishes to pick from is much valued as, while most us have tried Italian at any stage, there will always be something new here for first-timers to attempt. Located in the Hobart CBD, Cultura includes a warm and inviting atmosphere with fantastic service despite its nearly universally-busy standing because of its popularity.

Solo Pasta and Pizza

Cuisine: Italian

The other quality Italian choice in Hobart, Solo Pasta, and Pizza focuses slightly more on the “everyman” facet of Italian dining room, with an emphasis on cost and value together with mouth-watering pizza and pasta. This Sandy Bay restaurant was recently refurbished, and to great results — that the ambiance is currently a lot more contemporary, and the bronchial atmosphere contrasts with the upgraded décor to feel to be an extremely well-rounded Italian dining area. Additionally, it is a place that feels exceptionally friendly to families and people seeking to bring kids along for an excellent meal without feeling as though they’re likely to disturb other diners — a charge to the attitudes and preparation of their restaurant’s management.

Commercial Developments Affect Costa Rica Tourism

costa rica cloudy

Costa Rica is an emerging holiday destination with unlimited coastal glory and many attractions such as white water rafting, zip-lining, hot springs bathing and wildlife tours there is something for everyone. The large area of protected national parks is a huge highlight of Costa Rica you can even safely visit volcanoes and mountains have a truly unique experience. Costa Rica is famous for its agriculture and especially coffee, make sure you visit a plantation and taste the freshness from farm to cup. Costa Rica is an extremely diverse country in terms of biodiversity, there are over 500,000 different species of plants and animals to marvel at, they also maintain a commitment to environmentally friendly tourism practices and conservation of natural resources.

The tourism industry is bustling and booming with multiple commercial real estate developments emerging in recent years to cope with demand. There are several areas to Costa Rica, you can explore the beach haven on the Caribbean or venture into rural towns to be totally immersed in the vibrant and spirited culture of the Costa Rican people.

The Costa Rican Tourism Model often referred to “democratic” the tourism sector in Costa Rica is one of the most rapidly growing economic sectors of the country. It is a unique framework that enables tourist to most often visit three to four hotels during their visit. This model allows tourist to explore and get to know several parts of the country thereby spreading their money among several players. This boosts various sectors of the local economy at several locations.

This model has continued to gain more popularity in Costa Rica, and it is entirely different from the mass tourism model used in destinations like Mayan Riviera,the Dominican Republic or the coast of southern Spain. However, the way Costa Rica promotes its brand and experience is in sharp contrast to this model.  Most guests that stay at top branded or large all-inclusive hotels are usually transported from the airport to the hotel, and their destinations and they are not usually allowed to leave their premises except it is tour organized by the hotel. Though this can be convenient for travelers, it restricts the freedom of them to explore the local surroundings and spend money on local businesses such as restaurants and day tours. Big hotels often only organize tour they are business partners with limiting the ability of local operators to reach customers.

Although this model has contributed to the growth of the local economy, byemploying staff and bringing in tourists, however, it is not as direct and beneficial for small business in Costa Rica, and many advocates have voiced out their concern regarding this model.

The impact of this model on “residential” tourism is even more devastating. According to statistics, about 2.5 M+ foreigners arrive the country each year, and some prefer to rent condos, apartments or houses rather than staying at hotels or lodges. The primary concern here is about unfixed transactions, and the staffs that involved in such are part of an informal economy where labor regulations, social benefits, and taxes are simply ignored. There is a huge 400 room Dreams Resort in Guanacaste and a 150 room Casino in Jaco, intensifying the shift towards big tourist resorts, making it even more difficult for independent smaller scale hotels and accommodation to compete. These large commercial property sales and developments are often funded by wealthy corporate individuals who don’t support the local economy and have created controversy due to sewage dumping and degrading the natural environment.

However, these corporates are more reliable to first-time tourists, most likely having a quality management system in place as well as efficient integrated asset management. Big players have a presence on the internet and can afford to engage in advertising activity whereas smaller players in the tourism industry are not able to attract customers or even have a chance unless the partner with large corporates. This may result in the exploitation or mistreatment of unknowing small businesses who are not aware of the contracts they may be engaging in with large hotels. Small businesses should band together and create a trusted network to overcome or cooperate with corporate giants.

Costa Rica is a peaceful and majestic holiday destination that deserves to be seen by many more tourists in the future supported by ethical commercial development. To ensure a solid future for the tourism sector in Costa Rica, regulations and fair deals must be in place so large hotel chains and businesses can work cooperatively with small local businesses to boost the economy and bring the enjoyment of this wonderful country for all.

Leave Your Business in Safe Hands Whilst Travelling

employees talking

When you have a business that you work tirelessly and with dedication at, but need a travel break or are required to travel as a part of your work, you want to ensure that your business is in safe and running order whilst you are away. This is mostly to do with the competency and trustworthiness of your employees, but also importantly the effectiveness of the project management systems in place. Being away from you business, you want to ensure that information is at your fingertips and communication is streamlined so you can resolve any issues, luckily in this day and age there are multiple systems you can build into your website design for remote working capability.

Whilst you are away traveling, the safety of your business is a priority. Safety is always an important aspect with your business, preventing accidents and ensuring your employees are protected from harm and it’s crucial that business owners understand the importance of investment in safety. There are many reasons why safety is important as your staff have families to go back to, you must ensure that safety equipment and guards are always available and that appropriate reporting procedures are in place should an incident occur. A proficient safety management system in place will ensure you have peace of mind whist travelling, that your staff will be able to record and communicate any concerns to you directly so action can be taken.

No matter the size of your business, worker productivity shouldn’t be your first priority, managing safety is at the utmost importance, both for legal and moral reasons. With your absence whilst travelling you want to safeguard your business from safety threats, not just trips and accidents but also burglaries, break-ins, fire hazards, and other health risks. Verify that all electric equipment is tagged, smoke alarms are installed, security systems are in place, insurance is paid and health hazards such as mould are removed. A safety management system should record this information and prompt regular check-ups are crucial times. Aim to foster a safe work atmosphere where staff look out for each-other and raise any concerns to you whilst you are away travelling.

As an owner/manager of a business, your duties to promote safety and project monitoring include:

  • Initiating and executing safe work procedures in accordance with guidelines such as Work Safe Victoria
  • Following up and monitoring of progression of projects
  • Training your staff to follow safe work strategies
  • Make sure safe equipment and machinery is used
  • Follow up and act upon injury and incident reports
  • Provide safety gear to staff such as high vis clothing, appropriate footwear and sun protective gear
  • Have active workers insurance and compensation as well as a back to work program for those who are injured
  • Raise concerns at staff meetings and encourage safe behaviour
  • Keep track of projects and procedures via a professional management system
  • Ensure your employees practice good housekeeping habits and to not take any shortcuts

Traveling and being away from your business can be a daunting thought, but with proper management systems in place and a trusty web agency by your side to help with any online issues, you can be assured that your staff and business will be protected from harm and that you will be on top of all the happenings of your business no matter where you are in the world.

Perth, Australia’s New Coolest Destination

man surfing on wave

Perth is traditionally known for its beautiful limitless beaches and top class wineries, but the expanding hotel and food sector are now a real attraction. In the last year, two brand new resorts Aloft Perth and Tribe Hotel emerged, adding to the well-known and world-renowned COMO and The Treasury. Not forgetting about Crown Towers, the town is not full of a riveting selection of resorts that are designed by the most talented Perth interior designers.

On the food landscape, trendy fresh joints and old faves are attracting diners. “WA has plenty of wonderful produce,” says Celebrity chef Tobie Puttock. This really shows in the food served, extremely fresh and flavoursome. Enjoy your meal with a local Perth wine and savour the experience. Perth feels different to other Australian cities, it has a distinct feel that is just more relaxed and exclusive. Perth is now an exciting destination for both international and domestic travellers, due to the fantastic selection of dining and resorts. Below are the standouts of what Perth has to offer:

Tribe: Located in West Perth is the Tribe, Australia’s earliest integrated modular design resort. It prides in 126 fully furnished rooms topped with coastal home decor and focusses on delivering guests a differentiated resort encounter including super-comfortable rooms and integrated free-flowing shared areas. The designers of tribe redefine communal spaces and created a space that exciting and mysterious yet inviting.

The Alex Hotel: dynamic and fashionable, the Alex Hotel is situated right in the middle of the chaos of the cultural hub. The bedrooms are compact but well-equipped to make up for it. Custom made beds, luxurious Italian sheets, Turkish cotton towels and coastal beach furniture adds a special touch. The exterior is modern and lavish, and the communal areas are for interaction and living. An ultra-sleek roof-top bar provides the cocktails and environment perfect for a carefree individual that appreciates some luxury.

Gordon Street Garage: The pinnacle of all-day restaurants in Perth, Gordon Street Garage is an authentic favourite perfect for meet ups. A wine-bar, micro-roaster and bread specialist all in one, it is the city’s best all day food destination. Enjoy coffee and breakfast in the morning and return in the evening for wine and comfort food. Try the signature wood-fired pizzas, feed the crew with share dishes and sip on seasonal influenced cocktails at the interesting setting- a former garage with a garden.

The Richardson Hotel and Spa: a best-loved choice for celebrities whenever they stop-over in Perth. Modern and alluring, it is located right in the centre of town, near superb Kings Park and a selection of chic restaurants in Subiaco. The marble floors and interior exude luxury and you won’t be able to resist treating yourself to a facial and relaxing in the sauna. The daily breakfast and lunch will energise you to explore the surroundings that Pert has to offer.

Ku De Tah: Enjoy the picturesque views of the Swan River from The Deck dining area, dine in opulence at the West and KU Dining areas. The interior is distinct and remarkable, it is as if all great interior designers Perth boasts have come together to create this magnificent space. Observe the sunset and soak in the atmosphere as you eat fresh oysters and lacquered duck. This is a must go, there is no other experience quite like dining at a bespoke table and enjoying the finest produce Perth has to offer.

Having a GPS when Travelling

gps on phone

Remember life before GPS in your smartphone? I do, as it is when I first drove from New York to Philadelphia–and got lost. I wound up on a seemingly never-ending two-lane street, without a place to even turn around. Getting back on track took forever. Getting lost, of course, can lead to exciting adventures. This is why using a readily available GPS device is perfect for most travelers. Whether driving unfamiliar land, walking through the wilderness, or researching a new town, a dependable GPS navigation for your car gives you choices. It can direct you from the beginning, or you could become intentionally lost, knowing there is a way out.

The best GPS devices not only provide spot-on navigation but also include a range of bonus features that maintain the consumer super-informed (weather and traffic reports) and make the exploration experience more fun (with social media connectivity). Some GPS devices in your prestige car do more than simply play electronic tour guide: they can also function as lifesaving devices in a crisis. The DeLorme Earthmate PN-60w, by way of instance, includes a SPOT satellite communicator feature which lets you send an SOS message, in case you end up in danger when braving the elements. You can also use it to send messages to family and friends once your trek takes you out mobile phone range.

Other devices are multifunctional, such as the Garminfone. It’s a terrific GPS device, also it includes many smartphone-like features in addition to a dash mount, so it seamlessly transitions from a handheld to in-the-car navigation. With a contract, the Garminfone is hundreds of dollars less (as low as $99 at press time) than many standalone GPS devices.

Whether you are hiking in the woods, surfing the Souks of Marrakesh, or simply forcing the Northeast Corridor, these terrific GPS Devices can assist you in finding your way.

DeLormeEarthmate PN-60w

The benefits: The SPOT Satellite communicator allows users to send and receive email and social media updates via satellite. Plus, the identical feature may be used to send an SOS in case of an emergency.

Downside: The display is small and not too sharp.

Price: $550

Droid2 by Motorola

The benefits: The compass mode enhances the Google Street view feature. The image display matches what you are seeing through the windshield. As your car turns, the image moves, kind of like a live–activity smart map.

Downside: To use this mode, the telephone must be facing forward; this could be awkward when walking.

Price: $560

DroidIncredible by HTC

The benefits: The phone’s GPS and camera team up with Wikipedia to deliver content related to your environment (using the free Wikitude program, available through the Android shop).

Downside: While impressive, the points-of-interest database is not all-encompassing, yet.

Price: $530

Garminfonefrom T-Mobile

The benefits: The system includes uber-reliable GPS, and it is backed by the spot-on Garmin network. In addition to the car mount (included) means it moves readily in the palm of your hands to your car’s front window.

Downside: The phone’s built-in camera is simply so-so.

Price: $450

GarminOregon 550t

The benefits: This handheld has a built-in 3.2-megapixel camera using geo-tagging Capabilities, so that you can photograph your environment and plot them on a map.

Downside: The device is on the bulky side.

Price: $600

MotorolaMotoNav TN765t

The benefits: The extra-wide 5.1-inch display shows more of your environment. Plus the dashboard menu, which displays direction, speed, and elevation, can stay open without obstructing route instructions.

Downside: Obtaining a constant sign can be problematic in town settings.

Price: $250

TomTomGo 740TM Live

The benefits: Real-time traffic reports and five-day weather forecasts make this In-auto GPS useful for planning multiday itineraries and spontaneous detours.

Downside: Initial setup is a small pain as the steps are long and tedious.

Price: $280

How Secure Are Your Travel Photos?

two people taking photos

A photograph is worth a thousand words, but what if you have got a million photos on your telephone from your latest holiday spent roaming around Europe, and you have no room to store them all? You can move it your laptop or hard disk, but what if you wanted to share a few of these pictures with friends or loved ones? Your very best choice is to maintain them in the cloud, and that is why we provided you with the best cloud computing services out there. By using any of the below providers, you can create one photo library and upload images from your smartphone, digital camera or tablet computer and access them anytime from any device as long as you have internet access.

Privacy is another essential criterion, particularly for users who are expecting to store their private holiday family photos on the cloud. If that’s the case, it is better to decide on a cloud storage supplier with a zero-knowledge coverage (such as Sync.com) or personal encryption (such as IDrive). Below are the top best online storage providers for your travel photographs; and notice how all of them provide some choice of free cloud storage for photographs, so you can pick the right one for you!

Sync.com
With 5GB free storage space and zero-knowledge encryption, Sync.com isn’t simply the best cloud photograph storage; it is also the most secure. With the latest technology in encryption, Sync.com is one of our most secure Dropbox options (for more detail, we also have compared Sync.com vs Dropbox). You can upload pictures from desktop, tablet or mobile. Although the download and upload process takes a lot more than other cloud storage suppliers due to the encryption, that’s simply the price that you pay for privacy.

SugarSync
SugarSync is another one of the best online photo storage platforms for your holiday photography. However, SugarSync does not encrypt files everywhere, images pull up much faster as compared to Sync.com. However, SugarSync only encrypts data when it is in transit and on the cloud server. It will provide 5GB free storage, but only for 90 days. To have access to this free space you need to download SugarSync’s desktop program.

Google Drive
Google has altered its editing tool Picasa to Google Photos and has shifted the whole focus from photo editing to picture storage. With Google Photos, users get unlimited photo storage free of charge, which is perfect for storing your holiday photos. But, there are some catches as photos can only be up to 16 megapixels in resolution. If you would like to save higher quality photographs with RAW data, then it will count towards your total Google Drive storage, however, there is a limit of 2000 pictures per folder. Therefore, if you want to save over 2000 pictures, then you will have to split them up into multiple folders.

Moving on from these few grabs, Google Photos has a remarkably powerful search engine, which may identify components in pictures. Therefore, if you search for “shore,” then it will automatically scan through all of the uploaded photographs and pull the pictures that have a beach within it. (Yes, its one of the most innovative picture search programs, but not ideal.) Storing pictures on it cloud computing is now crucial for any holiday maker wanting to save their precious memories, as storing them on the cloud not only allows the photos to keep to a central location, but also to keep them safe if one of your devices corrupts or gets stolen. After all, our pictures hold lots of memories and losing them can be a huge loss.

Budget-Friendly Sustainable Travel is Possible

sunset and tent

What comes to mind when one thinks of sustainable travel? Gorilla trekking in Uganda, possibly, or a sojourn at a distant yet well-appointed eco-lodge in the forests of Costa Rica, or even a luxury stay at a Galápagos safari camp with an infinity pool and locally made teak furniture. If these high-cost excursions are what pop in your mind, your image of what qualifies as sustainable tourism isn’t necessarily wrong – it is just incomplete. The term sustainable travel has been connected to opulent eco-travel. Fuelled by a desire for guiltless extravagance and increasing attention paid to climate change, sustainability became a misused, industrywide buzzword associated with far-flung, expensive trips.

But sustainable tourism does not have to be costly. Not just that, it should really be more economical. Kelly Bricker, vice-chair of the board of directors of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, or G.S.T.C., claimed that there should be cost savings for doing the proper thing. If you are drifting locally, reinvesting back into the community, it ought to be cheaper than if you are importing from all around the world to make your goods. Not only should travel sustainably not break the bank – it is often a better, more pleasing product compared to its nonsustainable counterpart. I have compiled a few tips from experts, as well as in my own experiences, and have discovered that sustainable journey is something almost all casual tourists can manage.

While there are not definitive statistics on the proportion of the hospitality sector devoting a continuing commitment to sustainable travel, especially restaurants and stalls not investing in quality appliances to avoid frequent, wasteful oven and fridge repair services, there are signs that it’s on the rise. Research indicates that 65 percent of travellers wish to seek out green lodging in 2017 – almost double that of the prior year. And a study conducted by McGraw Hill Construction proves that green construction increased by 50 percent from 2011 to 2013, and now encompasses 25 percent of all hospitality construction.

And that impacts an increasingly huge number of travellers. Almost 1.2 billion people travelled the world in 2015, generating $1.5 trillion – a full 10 percent of international G.D.P.. That amount – and the massive environmental impact that accompanies it – is part of the reason 2017 has been designated the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development from the United Nations. Both destinations and travellers are increasingly acknowledging the effects of sustainable travel. We’re at a crucial crossroads, according to Dirk Glaesser, the manager of sustainable development of tourism to the United Nations World Tourism Organization. We now see lots of countries taking this quite seriously.

Tourism, even though a global economic driver, also leaves an enormous environmental footprint. By some measure it accounts for a total 50 percent of all traffic moves, according to the U.N. Environment Program, and local culture could be strained by a lot of tourists crowding a particularly beautiful location – a concept called overtourism. With a fast growing tourist base (1.6 billion people by 2020), the demand for a sustainable strategy grows increasingly more urgent.

The first challenge facing travellers is defining what sustainable travel really is – and distinguishing it from the many kinds of journey that advocates and entrepreneurs have attempted to tag as sustainable. When folks consider sustainable tourism, they consider little eco-huts instead of engineered timbers and frames, says David Picard, a former professor of anthropology of tourism in the University of Lausanne and a writer of a Unesco research on sustainable development. Eco-tourism rings a bell – Costa Rica, luxurious safari lodges in East Africa. But that’s only a very small element. While those companies certainly have their place, he said, a little lodge built at a remote location is not likely to have a substantial effect on national and local development.

You don’t create sufficient jobs or income. You do not create enough capacity. Ironically, what we recommend is work with AccorHotels since they have a massive professional capacity. They will train an entire resort – 300 or 500 people – and what they saw is that these employees, as soon as they’re trained, is that they’ll begin opening smaller resorts and are employed in larger hotel chains that need in-house tradies in air conditioning installation and maintenance or electrical services. That large-scale paying forward of both ability and financial viability is crucial, Mr. Picard said. That is the definition of sustainability – it is preserving resources for future generations. (He added that he would endorse any resort which has a Green Globe certification.)

As the notion of sustainable travel is now more mainstream, so has the idea that it suggests a degree of distress – but that shouldn’t be true. It is not drinking water from a vine, holding a machete and getting bitten by bugs under poorly structured architectural timbers and products, said Geoff Bolan, chief executive of Sustainable Travel International. What it does mean, he explained, is only exploring the character and culture of a place.

Not all travellers buy into the concept that they need to be worried about sustainability either. That’s the reason advocates have concentrated on getting large companies on board – they could alter the schedule.

Best Places to Travel for Shoe Shopping

shoe store

Some people like to unwind to a white sandy beach with the waves at their feet, while others prefer to trek hills and explore the wilderness, however, sometimes our thought of the ideal vacation is somewhere we could shop. The planet’s most beautiful stores are home to more than just fashion: many of the world’s best retailers are just as famous for their interior design components. And the best part about shopping overseas is finding these unique and one-piece bits no one else will possess back home. 

Singapore 

This is the city-state where shopping is considered a national hobby. There are over 300 shops, all under the one roof including luxury duplexes for boutiques like Ralph Lauren, Chanel, Cartier, and Prada. 

In case you still have more buying power, you have to visit Singapore’s monster mall, ION Orchard, even if it is just for the building’s structure. Its incredibly futuristic look is a photographer’s dream. Costing about $1.5 billion to build, the ION Orchard spans across eight retail floors, including another 48 residential floors on top of that, with over 333 shops of high-fashion manufacturers and gourmet dining. If you are planning a trip, be sure to reserve it during the Great Singapore Sale, Singapore’s largest sale of the year where you can pick up some great bargains on mens and womens shoes. 

Stockholm 

Home to a few of our favourite brands, Acne- plus a number of the world’s most trendy bloggers (Zanita and Look de Pernille), Stockholm is high up on our list. And if you need further evidence of the city’s global fashion ranking, it even includes its own fashion week. But apart from its trendy setting and individuals, we love the al fresco element of Stockholm’s shopping experience.  

Tokyo 

Tokyo is unquestionably on many people’s shopping bucket checklist. This high heeled city is famous for its unique mix of interesting designer shops, huge shopping malls, and offbeat style boutiques in the favorite Shinjuku neighbourhood. 

If you’re more of a mall shopper, you will enjoy KITTE. Located directly in front of Tokyo station, the six-level atrium construction includes a unique wedge-shaped inside with an outside garden on the top floor. We love the architecture, but with over 100 restaurants and boutiques devoted to Japanese cuisine and aesthetics, the storefronts are the attraction for us. It’s also linked to the underground tube, so tourists can get to and from the building easily. 

For vintage fans, the New York Joe Exchange is a super-fun treasure trove exploding with contemporary secondhand clothing, even finding a funky pair of womens sneakers. You can purchase, sell, and trade. 

A trip to Tokyo isn’t complete without a trip to the wealthy Ginza shopping district. Imagine super-high-end boutiques and shiny department stores, including the avant-garde Dover Street Market Ginza. Famous Comme des Garçons designer Kawakubo Rei has been the creative director behind this phenomenal building which includes seven floors of Japanese style and art installations throughout, making it a must-visit destination. 

Move even higher up the designer tree with a visit to Istean. This is without a doubt among the most lavish department stores in Tokyo, if not the world. Each of the designers reside there: Chloe, Fendi, Chanel, and more. Even in the event that you don’t purchase anything (which we’d find difficult to believe), the experience of shopping in Tokyo is worth the trip alone. 

Milan 

As host to one of the greatest fashion shows in the world, the Milanese live and breathe style. If luxury designers are your thing, you’ve come to the right place. Each of the world-famous Italian designers are all here, from Versace to Armani to Missoni. 

Quality design is anywhere in Milan: A stroll down the quiet side roads will alert you to some of the greatest ateliers making handmade leather shoes and world-class artisanal pieces. Just walking the roads is a feast for the eyes: everyone is impeccably dressed and über-chic. 

For the expansive mall experience, head to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping malls that is home to most of the major design houses, such as Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci, where picking up a pair of formal shoes would not be a problem. 

Dubai 

There is, in fac,t no other shopping destination quite like Dubai. It is home to one of the world’s biggest shopping malls, the Dubai Mall, that has over 1,200 stores. To conquer purchasing fatigue, you can let the staff at the mall’s in-house hotel bring you back to life. Or perhaps a fast trip to the world’s largest candy store, Candylicious, will do just fine. But if your toes are still willing and capable of more, strut on up to the largest shoe store in the world, Level Shoe District, which sells 600 pairs of shoes each day.  This is shoe enthusiast’s paradise, with 96,000 square feet of footwear and 300 brands to choose from, such as 40 stand-alone designer boutiques. 

Paris 

We surely couldn’t compile the world’s best shopping list without including among the most stylish cities in the world: Paris. 

With downright charming department stores like the Galeries Lafayette and Printemps, this is a city that you want to get lost in. While the shopping at Printemps is like something out of a fantasy, be prepared for a sensory explosion once you visit the sixth-floor brasserie. Have a seat on one of the famed Philipe Starck Lucite Ghost chairs and enjoy the light show from the magnificent stained-glass dome that reflects onto the mirrored tables under. 

For something a little more casual, but not enchanting, take a stroll down to the historic quarter Le Marais, prime stomping ground for fans of those one-of-a-kind and unique pieces, antiques, and art. A shopping trip to Paris would not be complete without a visit to the hottest and most popular fashion sectors: the Avenue Montaigne, Avenue des Champs-Elysées, and the Saint Honouré with all of the flagship designer boutiques. 

Travelling around the world for a great pair of shoes is an excellent way to find unique buys, however, you can always buy shoes online from these international boutiques and feel part of the international market, all form the comfort of your home.  

Let’s Travel For Shoes!

adidas shoes

Some people can travel for the meals, others for museums or city views. And then there are people who get out on in the city, on a quest to find the best shopping; shoe shopping. Behold, a list of the best shopping cities list below here to dictate your future travel plans. 

– Madrid, Spain
Take from the shopping buzz of Gran Via, the epicenter of retail in Madrid, stroll around the small shopping strips to find your new therapy shoes.  

– Paris, France
In the city of light, you should not miss the extravagant department stores that light up Boulevard Haussmann. There goes all of your travel money…

– Istanbul, Turkey
You may go to expansive indoor malls, or you may spend all of your time exploring the town’s bustling bazaars. We would choose the latter. 

– Singapore
According to the locals, Arab Street provides beautiful (and vibrant) accessories and materials, along with unique shoes just for your liking!  

– Tokyo, Japan
If you are obsessed with shoe fashion and style, you will understand that Harajuku, especially Takeshita Dori, is where you will discover kitschy statement bits and clothing, and of course shoes. Keep an eye out for the different types of mens boots and sandals.  

–  Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Plan your trip to Malaysia’s capital around July and August, when the nation holds the Mega Sale Carnival that boasts 70 percent off reductions. You will be spending all your money (and time) and the shoes of your dreams! 

 – London, England
Bypass the hoopla of Oxford Street and take a trip to Boxpark to find things nobody else has. Have a wonder through local shops, you may be surprised with what you find fashion wise. London’s unique allure is not possible to define. In the dizzying wealth of Belgravia into the metropolitan markets of Camden Town, every locality has its own particular character. Explore the unique world shopping strip, such as West End or Harrods, as there are an endless array of shopping (and shoe) options. The popular shoes will be located in the west end, along with on trend womens heels, and boots.

– Los Angeles, California
With amazing vintage finds all around town and big retail centers such as ‘The Grove’, shoppers will have no trouble finding great, fashionable items such as womens high heels to take home.

 –  Berlin, Germany
Go straight to the center of Berlin into Mitte, which has many shops that are modern, and aesthetically pleasing. Berlin’s style for fashion will surprise you, with its trendy clothing to stylistic shoes. Berlin has it all!  

– New York, New York
Sure, Fifth Avenue and Soho are amazing areas available in New York, but if you would like some vintage goods, jump on the train to Williamsburg in Brooklyn and reach all the super unique stores of New York.  

 – Milan, Italy
Milan certainly puts its best foot forward when it comes to stylish shoes. If you are trying to find sophisticated stilettos or a luxury pair of lofas, you will have your pick of independent shops and big name brands. Those in the know head to La Vetrina Di Beryl – the place to find the latest looks for your feet! Any day is a perfect day for shoe shopping and in Milan, as you have an excellent selection to dazzle your appearance! In Via Monte Napoleone or Via Della Spiga you can discover several shops. For an excellent place with a mixture of brands visit Vergelio, for all your fashion needs.  

– Leon, Mexico
On the lookout for stilettos, sneakers or sandals? You will be spoilt for choice in León, Mexico. Informally referred to as the shoe capital of the world it is where the big brand shoes have been made, with many things end up in the city’s outlets shops. Some such as Plaza del Zapato and Zona Piel, really sell nothing but sneakers. León’s high-quality leather makes it the shoe capital of Mexico. The Zona Piel area around the primary bus station is home to a massive choice of shops selling locally made footwear. 

-Franca, Brazil
Ensure you have got loads of room in your luggage when you visit Franca, home to Brazil’s shoe manufacturing industry. You can grab leather shoes by large brands such as Yves St. Laurent, and Adidas from the outlets around town, or unbranded products at one of the numerous markets, which are all very affordable. Over 500 factories in Franca create shoes for brands such as Adidas and Yves Saint Laurent. To pick up footwear deals, why not explore the shops in the major shopping strip, Calçado mall? 

London and Paris predominate as fashion capitals, but New York continues to wow its customers with their fashion and shoes, coming in at one of the very best towns in the world for shopping. Istanbul has also made its place in this list, for its awesome street markets and cheap clothing. For those people with fresh jeans, vintage attire, and new shoes on the mind, this manual is the best way to plan out your next fashionable shoe shopping holiday.   

European Foods You NEED To Try

two people european foods

European Foods You NEED To TryCalling all foodies, when you are on your travels in Europe, here are some things to keep an eye out for, as advised by some of the world’s best travel advisors.

Italy

Drink Chianti in Tuscany, indulge in some Prosciutto on your Parma and savour the taste of the authentic Bolognese sauce in the city of its origin– Bologna. Learn to make pasta or simply delight in a meal of pasta al Pomodoro, which is usually prepared with fresh pasta, olive oil, just picked tomatoes, basil, and various other fresh food components. Make sure you check out the traditions of Italian cuisine and wine from the town or city of their origin, however if you can’t get there, at least try a delicious gelato while exploring Rome’s Piazza Navona. From Panini to Pancetta, check out the depth of food lover heaven when in Rome, Florence, Venice, Parma and Tuscany, and more. If you miss the food upon reutrning, make sure to check out South Yarra’s very own authethentic European bistro.

Spain

Munch your way through Andalusia, Madrid, Seville and Barcelona. Join in with the locals at the maze-like La Boqueria Market in Barcelona, taste-testing samples of regional Manchego cheese, jamón serrano and olives. Immerse yourself in the regional tapas scene in Barcelona, find out how traditional Paella is made during a cooking presentation of Spanish prepared meals and savour the scrumptious local Catalan food, from Tuna escabeche to crema Catalana.

Scotland

The Scots claim to be the best food nation in the world! Scotland’s plentiful natural food game of, dairy items, fish, fruit and vegetables allow chefs to produce meals including different seasonings and spices. From Aberdeen Angus beef, Stornoway black pudding, Arbroath Smokies and Shetland Salmon, Lock Fyne Oysters to Scottish whisky and craft beer and wine, foodies can travel around Scotland tasting regional specialities from local restaurant and wineries. Don’t miss Scotland’s national meal, the haggis, which is a savoury pudding that consists of meat mixed with oatmeal, onions, different spices and salt. There’s even haggis ice-cream and haggis-flavoured crisps and chocolate if you’re game to try!

Poland

Poland is an emerging destination for food, a destination that is also well-known for it’s Vodka. Some local meals to keep an eye out for include Kwasnica (Sauerkraut soup), placki po góralsku (potato pancakes with goulash) and smoked Sheep’s cheese. Don’t miss trying out the pierogi (Polish packed dumplings), but for those more daring foodies, you can attempt bull testicles, jellied calves’ trotters or duck blood broth with vinegar. Street food fans must keep an eye out for Zapiekanki “Polish pizza”, an open-faced baguette topped with melted cheese, sliced mushrooms and sauces, or the Obwarzanek,  which is touted as a symbol of Krakow, a chewy bread roll topped with poppy seeds, sesame seeds or salt.

There are definitely more common European foods to keep an eye out for, even just to say that you’ve tried it. Like a Croissant from a breakfast restaurant in France, or a German sausage. Europe is the place your culinary dreams are made of, and with so many countries in close proximity to each other, it would be silly not to give everything a go!

Travel to India, The Blend of Cultures

taj mahal

Travel to India, The Blend of CulturesNowadays travelling to India has become very popular among tourists across the globe. More and more people want to travel to India. India is a country rich of heritage be it cultural or intellectual.

On travel to India, the tourists get to visit different cities portraying their own sweet, beautiful and magnificent culture. India is a country of diversity. In India, there are people of all religions be it Hindu, Muslims or Christians.

To visit India means to visit the world, with snowy Kashmir, urban Delhi, busy Mumbai, ethnic Kerala and beautiful Calcutta. India is such a wonderful and magnificent country to travel that people from all over the world come to travel to India and visit the amazing monuments, the beautiful theme parks and the amazing nature. Not only are there the mighty Himalayan Mountains to admire but also amazing waterfalls, beautiful rivers and fabulous sunsets.

India offers a lot of things for tourist on his travel to India to do. One cannot only visit the amazing and magnificent monuments like the mighty Taj Mahal, The elegant Qutub Minar but also the amazing temples of Amritsar, the beautiful mosques of Delhi and the serene churches or Pondicherry. Not only have that but one can enjoy the metro in Delhi and the bridges of Kolkota. Assam and Darjeeling well known for tea production are famous for making your eyes widen and your jaws drop. Bangalore, which is the major IT hub of India, is so amazing that one is enthralled by the beautiful high rise buildings and the busy rush that entails.

One can also enjoy the hot bollywood flicks with lots of music and dance and if you are in for something traditional try out the serene southern states. India is such a beautiful mix of various cultures that one cannot stop himself from admiring this country while on his or her travel to India.

Why I love Community Produce Grocers

groceries

No matter where I travel around the world, nothing beats coming home. I have seen many fresh produce markets in many many countries and there are some that are world renowned but there is one very close to home that doesn’t have the worlds attention just yet but it is my tip that it will soon.

I begin my Saturday with an early rise and a simple yet delicious Potato & Salmon Rosti Stack at one of my favourite breakfast cafes. Today, before lunch I’m off to the Yarra Valley to check out a cool and hip little produce grocer that sources some of the best food, wine and ingredients from around the area

A Simple drive from my current Hawthorn home base, as well as conveniently situated for Valley residents, in Yarra Farm Fresh you’ll discover the best locally developed Yarra Valley produce under one roof! Yarra Farm Fresh is a pleasant, buzzing location, in which you will experience old-fashioned customer support and knowledgeable help to aid with your choices. In addition to their new produce, they also give you a plethora of gourmet products and special gift wares sourced from the Yarra Valley.

The Best of Neighborhood Seasonal Fruits and berries step to a colourful world of tasty fresh food in Yarra Farm Fresh. Select from seasonal produce sourced from yarra valley wineries and boutique growers, and revel in the best the Yarra Valley has to offer you. Yarra Farm Fresh specialises in cherry types and also you may enjoy tasting the two or three distinct varieties available daily! Yarra Farm Fresh is dedicated to freshness, therefore fruits and vegetables frequently arrive in the store only hours later harvesting! Frequent clients enjoy the relationship with the regional farmers and feel safe in the sense that their food has been grown in the valley, and also they’re supporting farming.Why I love Community Produce Grocers

What you can look forward to based on the season

Spring: The Start of Spring is indicated with the arrival of Gino’s large fat berries, Eddie’s berries and Maggie’s garlic together with a lot of different offerings, such as yummy beers in late October.

Summer: Immediately through summertime, local growers arrive everyday, bringing within their just-picked, farm fresh vegetables and fruits, such as luscious cherries, berries, apricots, peaches and other stone fruit.

Fall: Early fall is harvest season and with most Yarra Valley accommodation providers having no vacancy, the shop is brimming with customers. If you can get there in time, fall is also fig period, where customers rush to grab the plumpest of ‘Gavin’s figs’, yummy quinces, along with also the freshest walnuts.

Winter: Even winter brings pineapple and fruit supplies from local growers, like rhubarb, apples and wonderful heirloom pumpkins. Publish their seasonal calendar for a month crop time and combine with their newsletter to keep current with arrivals of fresh produce, store news, specials and availability.

The folks behind the labels are gifted, enthusiastic and innovative, and use quality components to generate a cornucopia of fantastic gourmet goods. Small family businesses like Cunliffe & Waters have assembled a well-deserved reputation as a manufacturer of several of the best handmade preserves in Australia. Their famous Tomato & Red Capsicum Relish was a best seller in their shop from the day it started! Yarra Valley Pasta is created out of exceptional culinary customs and is available frozen and fresh, complimented with their conventional sauces. It has ever been Anita’s fervent vision and mission to provide customers something special: the freshest produce right from the farm, while simultaneously at the exact same time encouraging local farmers, farming households and regional companies. They’re advocates of encouraging the local market and our neighborhood staff and clients will be the backbone of their success.

Anita Jackson enjoys everything Yarra Valley along with the title ‘Yarra Farm Straight from the farms for you personally’. Since Anita drove the doors into the tractor Drop to get a small number of consumers in December 2006, the store has developed and Grown in to the Yarra Valley meals mecca it is today. They stuck a hand-crafted sign out and within minutes of it going up they were greeted by their very first client, Paul. He requested on that first afternoon to discover what else was avaliable from the region?’ The rest is now history! You may Always find decent quality, seasonal and regional produce in Yarra Farm Fresh, with costs that reflect each year’s bounty and the aid of the neighborhood Providers.

As I head home, car boot brimming with lots of goodies, and a stomach well and truly brimming from one too many samples I can definitely say the hour drive was well worthwhile. While there’s the odd fresh food store in Melbourne that offers quality produce and a strong variety of products; there’s a rustic feel and a genuine enjoyment of small community grocers which is just lost in the booming metropolitan landscape. From the shop assistant knowing where every product came from and who ran the associated farm, to the country roads and vastness of space. While I love the city, I love that place like this continue to exist and I’ll happily take the hour drive whenever I can to support them.

Tips For Traveling with Pets

dog in carry bag

travelling with petsIf you are carrying your pets with you when you travel, there is a lot of preparation that you need to do first. Make sure that your pet is as comfortable as you can get it, not too hot and not too cold when traveling. If you are traveling by car maybe a pet carrier would be better for a kitty. A sick animal can make a trip miserable for you.

If you are going to be visiting with someone, be considerate. You need to find out in advance if the pet is welcome to come. They may have pets of their own that won’t get along with yours. Also use this rule for hotels, parks, and certain camping areas.

If you have to leave you pet in a motel room for some reason, make sure that you place the DO NOT DISTURB sign on the door and tell the hotel supervisor or maid what is going on. It is a good idea to bring your kennel with you on your trip for these times. Also, it’s good if you are staying at someone house that does not want your pet running freely around the house.

Be sure your pet has its current tags on its collar. The tags should properly identify your pet with your address on it.
Make sure your pet is well-groomed before the trip that way they are nice and neat for everyone. Take the animal’s favorite toys, meal, and dishes with you if you can. This will make the animal feel more at home and help it to relax.

Have a copy of your pet’s most recent shots and medical history. You will need to have this if you are crossing some state or international borders. Some people take their pet to the vet for a checkup before they travel anywhere with it. This way they know that their animal is healthy and there should be no problems with them while they are traveling.

If your pet is going on a long journey with you in a car, there are some things that you can do to make the experience an improved one. If your animal is not used to riding in a car, you can check them out by giving them short rides in the car with you first. Some pet just don’t like to ride. I’ve got a cat that meows with every breathe as long as he is in the car.

If you can stick to the pets regular routines, like feeding and so forth. Be sure the food you carry is the food the pet likes. Also stop ever so often for your pet to stretch and do whatever. Keep your pet in the back of the car and out of your lap.

Why You Need To Be In the US for the BIG3

basketball through net

I am a huge basketball freak but, I am very excited. But, just in case you aren’t sold on it, here are a couple of highlights of the league that make it different from the rest, and are why you need to get on a plane to witness history in the making at the Big 3 game in Brooklyn this July.Ice Cube’s 30 plus, 3 on 3 basketball league is the reason why you need to be in the US, and more importantly, in Brooklyn on the 25th of June. The league is gaining more and more exposure as we creep closer to the launch date. We’ve seen the birth of other sporting leagues but none with the hype and excitement of the Big 3. The league is set to be a lasting one due to the way it was developed from game play down to players.Why You Need To Be In the US for the BIG3

Allen Iverson and Other Stars

No new professional sports league can make it through without talented and/or marketable players, and The Big 3 has exactly that. The league has already secured some enormous players for the game. The recently inducted Hall of Famer Allen Iverson will work as a both a coach and player for the 3’s Company, which is one of the teams set to play in the Big3 inaugural season.

The league will also consist as stars such as the likes of Chauncey Billups, Kenyon Martin and Jermaine O’Neal who are set to dust off the basketball shorts for one last hurrah as players in the Big 3. Julius Erving and Charles Oakley will be coaching in the league as well. Just those stars alone should be enough to entice basketball fans to the opening game in Brooklyn.

The Four-Point Circle

The BIG3 could have just opted for the standard basketball guidelines, but that wouldn’t be fun. The league doesn’t want to be the NBA, and it’s not trying to. This is a good idea and one of the main factors that could help the league stick around for longer than one season. There have been rumours about the NBA potentially adding a 4-point shot to the game, but there is no word on if and when that will ever take place.

Positioning the 4-point circle on the BIG3 court provides intrigue and excitement to both the competitors and the players.

No Foul

If you’ve ever played in a 3 on 3 competitions or leagues, then you would know that things can get physical. Due to the fact that BIG3 leadership speakers outlined the guidelines of the game, and there are no foul outs, we might potentially see some spirited play and the kind of isolation basketball that we do not get to see as much in the NBA anymore.

FS1 TELEVISION Deal

The hype instantly followed with The BIG3 when its TV deal with Fox Sports was revealed on Tuesday by a conference speaker for the network. The league will transmit video games on Monday nights and Fox will air the championship game live. Coverage of the game begins on June 26 with the national championship arranged for August 26.

Getting a primetime slot on a significant network equates to immediate legitimacy and direct exposure for the league. Fox is mainly overlooked of the professional basketball market; however this gets them in it in an intriguing and innovative way that says Fox all over it.

Nearly Unlimited Income Options

The Fox offer could be simply the starting for the Big3, and don’t expect to see business partnerships to develop overnight, but it makes sense that basketball jersey sales, sneaker releases sponsored by a few of the stars and even computer games based on the league could become a reality in the not so distant future.

So long as the league doesn’t have any significant bad moves in the early days, The Big3 has a fantastic possibility to be a long lasting and effective league. Make sure you don’t miss out on this once in a life time opportunity to make it to the first game of the league, it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to be part of sporting history, and it’s sure to be a story for the grandkids!