The Purple Passport

Seasoned advice for British Travellers

Travel Tips

3 Ways to Take the Stress from Air Travel

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Does the mere thought of travelling to the airport, checking in, going through security, and waiting around for hours on end for your flight put you off the idea of travelling by air? Fear not, as there are things that you can do to take the stress out of air travel.

Put the three pieces of the advice laid out below into practice, and you’ll be sure to touch down in your holiday destination feeling rested, relaxed, and ready to have the time of your life.

Book your pre-airport arrangements in advance

Your travels begin as soon as you leave your home. If you want to keep your stress down from the moment you embark on your adventure, you need to ensure that you book your pre-airport arrangements well in advance of your departure date. This means organizing for somebody to look after your home or to at least check up on it while you’re gone, and it means pre-ordering transport to the airport.

If you are travelling to the airport in your own vehicle, you must book yourself a parking space in advance. The last thing you want to do is turn up at the airport to find that they do not have the room to accommodate your car, as this will cause you unnecessary headaches and could even result in you missing your flight. So, for the sake of your stress levels and your travel plans, make sure you book yourself a parking lot space on a trusted website like Parkon.com before you arrive at the airport.

Sail through security with ease

Security checks at the airport are necessary; there’s no denying it. They are designed to keep you and fellow air travelers safe, which is why you must undergo them every time you attempt to board a flight.

You’ll never be able to avoid airport security checks, but you can speed them up considerably and subsequently take the stress out of them. If you sign up for the TSA PreCheck program, you will be able to streamline the security process simply because you won’t be asked to take off your clothes or remove your electronic items from their bags. This will shave off a considerable number of minutes from the time you usually spend passing through security lines, which means that you’ll be able to spend more time relaxing in the departure lounge.

Have a sleep on the plane

The stress doesn’t magically disappear as soon as you’ve boarded your plane. Being confined to a small space is never particularly relaxing, and neither is turbulence! If you want to escape the stresses that are commonly encountered up in the air, simply find a way to drift off to sleep.

Easier said than done, right? True, sleeping on planes is not always the most straightforward experience. It can be achieved, however, if you put the following advice into practice:

  • Tweak your sleeping habits before you start travelling to ensure that you’ll be tired on the plane
  • Pre-book your seats to ensure that you aren’t sat in high-traffic areas (next to the toilet, near the galley, etc.)
  • Wear comfortable clothes that keep you warm when the onboard temperature drops
  • Alleviate your back pain by investing in any of the items listed here

Simple Steps to Book a Flight Online

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Booking a flight via any of your devices is as easy as providing the required information and clicking the confirmation button. Book Delhi Mumbai flights by following the following simple steps;-

Outline Your Travel Plans

Travel plans comprise of your destination, date and time of travel, duration of stay, and deciding on a travel package. Note these details down and have them easily accessible as you book your flight.

Visit the Airline’s official website

If you already have an airline in mind, visit their website to learn more about the flight you wish to take. In some instances, travelers have no idea what Airline is ideal for their travel plans.

When it comes to such situations, enter your travel details on an aggregator site such as Momondo and Skyscanner. An aggregator website will show you lets of flight options for the particular information you provided. Then, you can sort the data based on price, length of trip, or Airline.

Compare Flight Offers

The more flexible you are, the higher chances of landing a fairer deal. Weekdays have the cheapest flights, thanks to low demand as compared to weekends. Booking earlier, by about two weeks or more, offers more affordable flights.

Compare available flights keeping in mind relevant details such as departure and arrival airports, prices, travel times as well as cancellation terms of the Airline. Take note if the price includes taxes and luggage fees.

Purchase Your Ticket

Once you have decided on the flight, follow the website’s prompt to purchase your plane ticket. Every site will require you provide the following information during purchase;-

  • Name
  • Number of travels
  • Seat preference
  • Any allergies and other meal preferences
  • Credit or debit card information

Some airlines allow that you pay your baggage fees online to reduce your checking time at the airport. If you are purchasing an international plane ticket, you will require your passport, and in some instances, a visa to purchase your ticket.

Decide on Complete Package or not

As you near the end of your booking process, some airlines may suggest add-ons such as accommodation and car rentals. Before agreeing to the offer, do some research to ensure you are getting a fantastic deal.

If you require any special accommodations such as a wheelchair, be sure to place a request during your booking. If the website does not prompt such a request, call the Airline directly to avoid future inconveniences.

Flight Confirmation

Finish by confirming that all the information you have given is correct. Provide any personal or payment information required to complete the process. Once you are through, you will receive an email of your receipt and ticket information.

In case you do not receive that within a few hours, contact the Airline. Please save a copy of the receipt, or even better, print it out.

Conclusion

The emergence of technology has made it easier for travelers, both domestic and international. If you wish to book your flight right from the comfort of your home or office, follow the above steps to achieve the best results.

8 of the Most Amazing Beaches on the Globe

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There are a lot of beautiful places on planet earth. There are stunning mountain ranges, raging waterfalls, city skylines, and more. One of the most fantastic views, though, has to be the ocean’s crystal clear water from a beach with pristine white sand. There is something about this contrast of colors on a sunny day that calls out to so many. 

Outside of the beauty that the beach provides, it also offers a sense of calm and tranquility. As visitors set up their beach chairs and towels, the rest of the world seems to fall away. 

The other great thing about the beach (and these beaches especially) is that beachgoers can choose between relaxation and beach activities. There are watersports, beach sports, shopping, and more that each of these beaches offers. They are dream beaches for anyone that loves the sand and saltwater. 

So, if you are planning your next trip and not sure where you are going yet, make sure to have an open mind with this list of beaches. We apologize in advance, though, if you cannot decide between which of these amazing beaches you should visit. You may just have to plan multiple trips. 

7 MILE BEACH 

Location: Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

This award-winning beach is a stretch of oceanfront that is enjoyed by people from all around the world. The white sand and crystal clear water are as fun to look at as it is to enjoy. And, with it being a vast expanse of beachfront, there is plenty of space for everyone and every type of beach activity. Off the beach, there are plenty of resorts, dining options, and fun activities for everyone. Lastly, if you are looking to explore and experience multiple beaches, Grand Cayman also offers several other beaches to enjoy as well. 

Ka’anapali Beach

Location: Maui, Hawaii

With amazing resorts, spas, and delicious restaurants, there is as much fun out of the water as in it at Ka’anapali Beach. In the water, you have snorkeling, surfing, and so many other water activities. If you are like most of us, though, and enjoy simply relaxing on the beach, there are plenty of opportunities for that as well. You will be able to sit back, enjoy the views, and bask in the sunshine. With all that Ka’anapali beach offers, there will be something for everyone. 

NUSA DUA 

Location: Bali, Indonesia

Located in South Bali, Nusa Dusa is a beachgoer’s dream. From five-star resorts to fine dining to golf resorts, the area is set up perfectly for visitors. On the beach, you will get picturesque views and access to calm and peaceful waters. The reason why the waters are so calm is because of an offshore reef that protects the shore. This allows for plenty of fun and relaxing dips in the water for everyone at the beach. Also, for those interested in being able to check out multiple beaches on their trip, Nusa Dua has several different beaches that you can explore. 

 

NAVAGIO BEACH 

Location: Zakynthos, Greece 

Navagio Beach is an interesting beach for a couple of reasons. The first is that it can only be accessed by boat as white limestone cliffs completely surround it. The second reason it is so interesting is that it has an actual shipwreck on the beach that has been there since the ’80s. Add in the pure white sand and crystal clear blue waters, and you have a beach that is well-deserving of being on this list. So if you ever find yourself in the Greek Islands, make sure to visit Navagio Beach and all that it has to offer. 

BONDI BEACH 

Location: Sydney, Australia

With a large number of activities, Bondi Beach has so much to offer visitors. This is especially true if you enjoy surfing, as Bondi Beach offers excellent surfing opportunities, among other water sports and activities. With resorts, fine dining, shopping, and a number of seasonal events, there will be something for everyone at Bondi Beach. But don’t worry, there is still plenty of opportunities for lying on the beach, catching some rays, and relaxing the day away. 

NISSI BEACH 

Location: Ayia, Napa, Cyprus

Located in Cyprus, Nissi Beach is a unique beach as it offers a large amount of shallow water off the shore. A small islet splits the beach, allowing for shallow waters that can be explored and enjoyed. This also makes the waters great for many different water sports. Outside of the water, visitors have access to stunning views, soft sand, and world-class hotels and resorts. With all of the resorts comes plenty of activities and fun in the sun for all.  

PIHA BEACH 

Location: North Island, New Zealand

With black sand and a rock known as “Lion Rock,” Piha Beach is anything but average. Its uniqueness and beauty are enjoyed by many, and the wild and mysterious waters make for excellent surfing. Another highlight of the beach is what is going on behind it. Butting up to the beach is a protected parkland consisting of subtropical forests and a large variety of wildlife. So if you are looking for a beach that is as unique as it is beautiful, Piha Beach may be the choice for you. 

AS CATEDRAIS BEACH 

Location: Galicia, Spain

Also known as the Beach of the Cathedrals, this is one beach that was made for exploring. Over time, the waters have carved out different formations in the rocks and even some natural passageways. So when the tide is low, visitors can go exploring through these different rock patterns. Also, when not exploring, visitors can sit back and enjoy the stunning views that the beach, rocks, and water all combine to provide. 

8 of the Most Amazing Beaches on the Globe Conclusion

There is just something about the natural beauty that the beach and ocean come together to provide. And as you can see from this list, there are a number of different types of beaches that offer this. 

Outside of the views, though, these beaches offer so much more. From resorts to water sports to fine dining, everything you will need to enjoy a vacation is right there. 

So start planning your trip, and get ready to enjoy the journey of a lifetime. 

6 Reasons You Should Go Camping This Summer

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Beach holidays are great for relaxing and escaping from your daily routine. Cultural city breaks give you the chance to visit historical sites and learn about something new. While both are amazing vacation experiences, going camping is a great alternative that offers much more than you think. Here are six reasons you should go camping this summer.

1. Reconnect

Camping gives you the chance to reconnect with loved ones. With poor signal and a lack of WiFi, you can encourage your children to look up from their phones and switch off for the weekend. Sharing a tent together also gives you the chance to develop the emotional bonds that might have faded due to city life. The tent in this Alpha Cabin Tent review is perfect for families to camp together, but still have enough personal space to keep to their own.

2. Scenery

Rivers, trees, mountains, and lakes are just some of the scenery options you are treated to when you go camping. The natural beauty surrounding many camping locations offers a much welcome alternative to the city. Who wouldn’t want to swap their commute to the office with a commute to a water spring?

3. Stargazing

Did you know that by living in the city, you can only see a small number of stars? Camping gives the chance to gaze upon a whole host of new constellations in the untamed hinterland. There are breath-taking meteor showers to be seen by stargazing while you are camping, as well as the chance to learn a bit about astronomy.

4. Food

The food on a camping trip always tastes sweeter. Cooking your food out in the open gives it a unique taste, most likely due to the further distance between your ingredients and the toxic fumes of the city. Your taste buds are also more receptive when you’re camping, since you have less time to snack and take part in more physical activities and adventures. When you finally get a chance to sit down and eat, you will find that you enjoy your food a whole lot more.

5. Confidence

Going camping can greatly boost your confidence. Whether it’s taking on the challenge of gathering firewood and starting the campfire, taking charge of the family hike around the local mountain area, or even finding materials to construct a handmade bow and arrow, camping gives you the opportunity to learn a new skill and boost your confidence as you do it.

 

6. Affordability

Vacations can be expensive, especially in the summer holidays. Heading into the woods can be a great cheaper alternative. More importantly, once you have already invested in the right camping gear, you won’t need to buy anything new the next time you want to go. Another way to save money is by avoiding private campsites and heading instead into publicly-owned national forest lands.

Swap the beach and the city for a more natural location and take your family back to their roots this summer holiday.

Camping Hacks: 5 Simple Ways to Improve Your Camping Experience

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young friends have good time on camping trip, relaxing vacation with fun

Looking for some new camping hacks to make your trip a success? Camping is all about good planning. If you don’t pack the right gear, you can’t just whiz home to fix the mistake.

So, listen to the experts. Below you’ll find 5 hacks to make your campout epic. When you’re ready to discover what you shouldn’t forget, read on.

1. Dinner Camping Hacks

Everything takes longer when you’re camping. Yep, that includes washing, preparing for bed, and even cooking. To make your trip successful, do what work you can while you’re still at home.

For the rest, do your best to simplify.

For food, make a simple dish in a single pot. A Dutch oven is the easiest method. It’s a type of all-in-one, multi-cooker pot.

Simply pick one of your favorite Dutch oven camping recipes. Then, perform all the preparation work at home. When you find your camping spot, heat, and serve.

2. Dessert Camping Tricks

Tired of smores? No problem. Instead, pick 3 of your favorite fruits, berries, or nuts.

Now throw them in a waffle cone along with some chocolate chips and marshmallows. Wrap the whole thing up in foil and store it upright in a spot they won’t get damaged.

After you finish your camping cookout, add the desert wrap to the banked coals. Be sure you leave the foil on. Remove your dessert wrap from the fire when it’s good and melted.

Then eat up!

3. Water Bottle Camping Tips

Sure, staying hydrated is important, but what about staying warm? You can use your water bottle as a portable heater.

We recommend a 32-ounce indestructible bottle, like a Nalgene. They’re small enough to curl up with and they won’t crack under the heat.

Simply pour hot water into your bottle and wrap it with a spare shirt or another piece of clothing. That’s to ensure the bottle doesn’t burn you. Then slip into the bottom of the bag to keep your feet warm during the cold night.

4. Lighting Tips for Camping

Headlamps are a must for most campers. They’re portable, hands-free, and last for hours. Unfortunately, they may be too bright.

Have you ever tried to hold a conversation with someone who’s shining their headlamp in your eyes? It’s like staring into the sun. The effect grows worse when the sun goes down.

Instead, pull your headlamp over a 1-gallon jug of water. Point the lamp inward, toward the water. It’ll diffuse the light and brighten a much larger area while keeping it out of your eyes.

5. Mosquito Tips While Camping

Mosquitos are ubiquitous. If you don’t have a plan to repel them, then you’d better have a plan for treating mosquito bites. You’re going to get them.

But with a little proactive thinking, you can discourage the brunt of those little pests. Bug repellant is a tried and true method. But what if you have small children or you’re allergic to the foul-smelling stuff?

You can always try candles that include bug repellant. Citronella candles are one alternative. You can also try burning sage in your campfire.

It’s a naturally repels bugs. You can even pick wild sage if you want to add it to your camping experience.

What’s Next?

Now you have 5 of the best camping hacks to ensure your success. Remember to plan and pack early. That’s the key to guarantee your campout is epic.

If you liked these tips, skip on over to our enormous library full of articles about travel. So long and good luck!