Traveling can be a lot of fun, but it can also be expensive. If you’re not careful, you can easily rack up a large bill while you’re away from home. One way to avoid this is by using digital financial services to compare rates and find the best deals. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of using digital financial services when traveling, and we will provide a list of the best ones out there!

1. Digital financial services can help you save money

If you’re not careful, it’s easy to overspend while you’re on vacation. However, if you use digital financial services to compare rates and find the best deals, you can save a lot of money. This is especially helpful if you’re traveling to a foreign country where currency exchange rates can be expensive. Digital financial services can also help you keep track of your spending. This way, you can budget better and avoid going over your limit. Finally, digital financial services often offer rewards or loyalty points that you can redeem for future travel expenses. This is a great way to save even more money!

2. Digital financial services are convenient

Another great benefit of using digital financial services is that they’re extremely convenient. You can access them from anywhere in the world, and you can use them 24/seven. Using advanced comparison for financial services also means that you can always find the best deals, no matter where you are or what time it is. Plus, if you have any questions or problems, most digital financial service providers offer customer support that’s available 24/seven as well. This is a huge advantage over traditional financial institutions which often have limited customer support hours. For instance, if you’re traveling and you need to speak to someone about your account, it’s much easier to reach customer support for a digital financial service than it is for a traditional bank.

3. Digital financial services are secure

When you’re traveling, it’s important to feel confident that your money is safe. Fortunately, digital financial services are very secure. Most of them use the latest security technologies to protect your information and keep your money safe. Plus, if you ever have any problems or concerns, most digital financial service providers offer excellent customer support that can help you resolve any issues. For example, if your card is lost or stolen, you can quickly cancel it and get a replacement. This is much easier than dealing with a traditional bank or credit card company. Also, if you’re ever worried about the security of your account, you can always set up two-factor authentication to add an extra layer of protection.

4. Digital financial services offer great features

In addition to being convenient and secure, digital financial services also offer a number of great features that can make your life easier. For example, many of them allow you to send money to friends or family members who also have accounts with the same service. This is extremely helpful if you’re traveling together and you need to split expenses. Some digital financial services also come with mobile apps that let you check your balance, transfer money, or even pay for items using your phone. This is extremely convenient if you don’t want to carry cash or cards with you while you’re traveling. Finally, some digital financial services offer discounts on travel expenses like hotels and flights. This is a great way to save even more money on your next vacation!

5. Digital financial services are becoming more popular

As digital financial services become more popular, more and more companies are offering them. This means that there’s a lot of competition out there, which is great news for consumers. Companies are constantly trying to come up with new and innovative features to attract customers. This is good news for travelers because it means that there are a lot of great options to choose from. When you’re looking for a digital financial service to use on your next trip, be sure to compare different providers to find the one that best meets your needs.

Digital financial services offer a number of benefits for travelers. They can help you save money, stay secure, and take advantage of convenient features. As they become more popular, there are sure to be even more great options available. So, if you’re planning a trip, be sure to compare different digital financial services to find the one that’s right for you.

Do you use any digital financial services when you travel? What are your favorite features? Let us know in the comments below!

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of summer? If it’s one of those warm-weather moments, then a beach. And what do you need to get ready for such an occasion? Like most people, you have many beach accessories that you must pack.

Must-Have Beach Accessories

• Sunglasses

Sunglasses are one of the beach accessories when going to the beach. Keep those eyes protected from harmful UV rays while enjoying your day at the beach! Sunglasses can help block out the sun’s rays and prevent eye damage from overexposure to sunlight. Sunnies come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, so there is something for everyone.

• Headband

If you’re going to be out at the beach, you need a headband. Headbands are important because they keep your hair out of your face and help keep you cool. You can find headbands in every color and style imaginable. You can get them with elastic bands or Velcro closures. Try getting one with a colorful print if you want to add color to your beachwear.

• Sun Hat

A sun hat is a must for summer. It protects your face and neck from the sun and helps you stay cool. The best ones to buy are those with wide brims. They can be folded into a small pouch or bag.

• Cover-up

Bring a beach cover-up with you if you plan to spend an entire day relaxing at the beach. They come in all different styles and colors, so there’s no need to worry about finding something that matches your style.

Plan on wearing a beach cover-up for at least part of the day if you plan to spend an entire day relaxing at the beach. Alternatively, you can alternate between bikini only and your beach cover-up every couple of hours after spending some time in the sun.

Sun protection is only one reason for wearing a beach cover-up.You should wear a cover-up when walking from and to the beach, especially in common areas like the lobby or a bar. Most resort pools require a bit of walking, so a beach cover-up will keep you comfortable if you don’t enjoy walking around in just a bikini.

• A Pair Of Cute Sandals

Whether walking on the boardwalk or lounging on the sand, you’ll need a good pair of sandals to keep your feet comfortable. Look for a style that’s both cute and practical.

• Sunscreen

You don’t want to miss out on the sun because of your tan, so make sure you use sunscreen daily. The best type of sunscreen provides broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.

Summary

Now that you understand what accessories are necessary for a complete beach outfit, you can start planning your looks for the upcoming season. With a few key pieces, you can create a variety of beach-ready outfits that will have you looking and feeling your best. So, grab your sunscreen and your favorite beach bag, and get ready for a summer of fun in the sun

If you are a student who would like to travel, you may face multiple challenges. A lack of money, visa issues, and language issues are just some of the issues that young people attempting to travel face. For this reason, we’ve decided to present 5 cheap travel destinations for college students that you can visit on a single visa: the Schengen visa. All of our travel destinations are in Europe, are very attractive and offer a variety of both cultural and natural sights to visit.

Why Should Students Travel?

As a student, you should spend most of your free time travelling. Truth be told, this is the period of life when you will have the most time to do so. Before you start a family and dedicate your life to career advancement and purchasing a place to call home, you should consider the benefits of travelling:

1. Travelling broadens the mind – if you’ve ever read any great works of American literature, you should have noticed that the authors have travelled quite a bit: their writing skills flourished when they were exposed to different cultures. You should do the same and be open-minded,
2. Travelling improves your language skills – indeed, the best language schools offer immersion courses to ensure you get to experience the culture and the language,
3. Travelling teaches you how to budget,
4. Travelling teaches you how to find your way around – much more than your hometown ever could.

Let’s now consider some popular and affordable destinations to travel to:

5 Best Travel Destinations for Students

Greece

Greece is an amazing country to visit. Very affordable and offering a variety of places that you can visit, Greece is the travel destination of choice for both nature and culture enthusiasts. Cyprus, Corfu and Thessaloniki are all different, but they offer you an insight into what one of the oldest civilisations was like.

Italy

A bit pricier than Greece, Italy can still be surprised with how affordable it can get. Anywhere from Milan to Salento, you can find affordable accommodation and enjoy sightseeing like never before. A bonus tip: never dine in restaurants where you can see a lot of tourists: eat out in places full of locals – they know where the food is good and affordable.

If you’re dreaming of a European getaway, consider Florence, Italy, as your next destination. Wake up surrounded by art and culture at the Gallery Hotel Art. Read about our recommendations for budget-friendly travel destinations for college students and start planning your adventure today

Poland

Poland is a surprise entry on our list. A discovery for us, Poland is incredibly affordable and offers great insights into how the Medieval peoples of Europe lived. If this is what you aim for, just visit any old city centre – they are full of old buildings and the architecture is breathtaking. Burritos and beer for $10-12 per person? Count us in.

Hungary

Hungary is becoming a more popular travel destination among European students. There’s the best reason to visit the place. Full of monuments, medieval castles and bridges, Hungary will also leave you in awe with its cuisine: a variety of vegetable and meat dishes and more soups than you could ever travel making this country the best travel destination for foodies.

Spain

Spain, on the other hand, offers a vibe very similar to that of Greece. Hot and dry, it has hundreds of miles of amazing beaches to offer. Add to this the Mediterranean charm and amazing local food, olives, and pastry, and you will be in seventh heaven. A bonus tip: hiring Lets Grade It will leave you with a great application letter for one of many Spanish Universities. A lot of American students choose Spain to study because of the sheer affordability and quality of study programs offered in the country.

Final Considerations

Travelling is one of the best ways to spend your free time. With this in mind, you should understand that budgeting and saving to travel is one of the best things to do for both your personal and professional development. Yet another way to save while saving a ton on travel agents’ fees is to do all the booking by yourself. When it comes to college students, exploring Cheap Travel Destinations for College Students can be a game-changer, opening up opportunities for enriching experiences without breaking the bank.

Joanne Elliot

Joanne Elliot loves reading and travelling. Indeed, some of the destinations in this article are her favourite destinations as well. When she is back home, though, she loves to focus on her work and friends and make the best use of every single day.

When most people think of Charleston, they think of the beautiful beaches and historic homes. What they may not know is that there is a thriving hotel industry in Charleston, with a wide variety of hotel types to choose from.

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious resort or a budget-friendly option, Charleston has something to fit your needs. And because there are so many options to choose from, it means that you have the opportunity to stay somewhere truly special, such as The Pinch Hotel which is considered a luxury boutique hotel. This way, you will have everything that your heart desires. Of course, it can depend on budget, but it is always worth checking out the prices online and looking for deals. The longer you stay, the cheaper you can often make the daily rate. 

So what are the different types of hotels that you can find in Charleston? Here’s a rundown:

Luxury Resorts

For those who want to experience the best that Charleston has to offer, there are several luxury resorts scattered throughout the city. These resorts offer top-of-the-line amenities and accommodations, as well as access to some of the best restaurants and attractions in town. If you’re looking to splurge on your Charleston vacation, a luxury resort is a way to go.

When we are spending money on our trip, it makes sense to consider the accommodation as important as the rest of the activities. Luxury can come in sleeping facilities, room service, and being ability to look out at a magnificent view of historic buildings or beaches, as Charleston has to offer. Terraces and balconies are very popular with tourists, for obvious reasons. Why not book a hotel at a location that surrounds you in the history and scenic views associated with a place?

Boutique Hotels

If you’re looking for something a little more unique than your typical hotel room, Charleston’s boutique hotels are a great option. These hotels are typically smaller in size and offer a more personalized experience than larger resorts. You can find boutique hotels throughout the city, each with its unique style and personality.

Those who like bespoke and who are looking for individual decors will appreciate the boutique hotel for something different. Generally, the owner will have created a certain theme for their hotel, which might well be in keeping with the place or particular location. Different rooms might even be themed differently to give you a choice of décor. You can choose what interests or excites you in that respect. It is nice to look at the beautiful scenery in or out and wherever you go. It all adds to your experience that you want to become a memory to cherish.

B&Bs

If you’re looking for a more intimate experience, Charleston’s bed and breakfasts are a great option. These small inns offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere, as well as a chance to meet other travelers. Many of Charleston’s B&Bs are located in historic homes, adding to the charm.

If you are looking to do things on a budget this is a great option. Although, many on vacation will not want to hold back and want all the trimmings and the finer things in life for their trip away. There is the trend to have better holidays away and more staycations in-between times.

Vacation Rentals

For those who want the comforts of home while on vacation, Charleston’s vacation rentals are a good option. These rentals come in all shapes and sizes, from apartments to condos to private homes. Vacation rentals offer a more spacious and private experience than hotel rooms, and many come with kitchens and other amenities. It all depends on your preference of how you want to spend your time away.

No matter what type of hotel you’re looking for, Charleston has something to fit your needs. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the ideal place to stay on your next trip to the city.

The airline Tui has the tagline ‘be happy’ and when you fly with them to Mexico that’s exactly what you will be. Laura Barlett ruminates on the magic of Tulum

Setting off from Manchester on the T123 flight I was full of excitement and intrigue. I’d only ever visited Mexico for a few hours when I walked over the border from San Diego to Tijuana and had a crash course in all things Mexican. I ate tacos, drove around in a converted school bus and ate a caesar salad in the original Caesar hotel. But a few hours wasn’t enough to become truly immersed in what Mexico is really about. Which I now know is magic and miracles, but I don’t want to get ahead of myself just yet.

The flight was seamless and when we touched down in Mexico and the Tui staff opened the doors with huge smiles on their faces, it was as if they knew that what was about to come over me during my trip was way more than just the heat. Jumping into a transfer from the airport – after picking up a margarita whilst I waited, obviously – I was soon on the 90-minute ride to my first stop in Tulum.

The Kimpton Aluna hotel is in the popular and cosmopolitan Aldea Zama area and it was to be my first home during my stay. Check-in consisted of writing down something negative that I wanted to leave behind and then burning it in the popular Mayan ritual before making a wish. This welcome set the tone for the entire trip and, from this moment on, all that occurred was positive vibes aplenty, with a side serving of magic.

After dropping off my bags, freshening up and picking up a fresh green juice in the hotel’s restaurant, the beach was calling my name. At first glance, Tulum Beach is nothing special in comparison to the others. Crystal clear waters. Check. White sand. Check. But what the others don’t have, that this beach undoubtedly has, is the vibe. It’s not even something that the 26 letters of the alphabet could ever let me express in words. It’s a feeling that, once it touches you, your life will never be the same again.

When you sit on a beach in Europe you’ll be badgered every two minutes by a third-rate hustler trying to sell you items that will corrupt your life or, better still, break faster than you can say the words ‘corruption and lies’. But on the beaches of Tulum, you’ll find people trying to nourish you with vegan food, keep you watered with fresh juices and encourage you to spend more time looking through your third eye than the other two that the world can see. On the European beaches, people are searching for love, but on the beaches of Tulum people already know that they ARE love. Everyone is in their own bubble, high on life, and judgement has no place here.

Whilst drinking the best coconut water my mouth had ever experienced, picked up from Matcha Mama, as the waves were lapping and people were playing drums and dancing without a care in the world, I had a moment of reflection where I thought, isn’t life a miracle and wild at the same time? It’s like no matter what path we’ve all taken in life, what pitfalls and achievements we’ve endeavoured, every single decision brought each of us to this very moment that we’re in now. And while you might not even speak to your fellow sun-seekers other than a courteous hello, it’s almost like the unspoken truth lies in the air that your soul brought you here. To Tulum, to this beach and to this very moment. This very moment that once it’s passed cannot ever return, and that right there is the single biggest reason why we have to live in the moment. For it is all that we have. And if you can’t be present in Mexico, then you can’t be present anywhere.

With so much on offer, I reached out to Tulum Hype via Instagram to get the lowdown on the best things to do while I was in town. On my second night, they hooked me up with a reservation at one of the most exclusive restaurants in the Beach Zone, Negra Restaurant. I was dining solo but the staff were so much fun I felt like I was hanging out with my mates. I danced, smiled and laughed with my fellow diners and felt like a spoiled queen while the waiters finished off my sea bass table side, all while enjoying the sweet liquid gold that is a classic margarita, Mexico style. I noticed groups of girls and guys at the tables next to me, who hadn’t glanced up once from their phones. Flicking from app to app to show the world that they’re having a great time and living their best life in the virtual world, they seemed to be totally missing the entire point of our human existence, which is to live in the now and be present. Clearly, they cared more about looking happy on social media than being happy in real life which, sadly, is the single biggest mistake our generation continues to make.

After dinner, I hopped into one of the cabs that were waiting outside and the drive out of the beach zone was like driving through a Jukebox, with the eclectic tunes playing out from the different bars and restaurants as you drive by. From Nelly to Broomsticks, I relived my childhood, my teenage years and my later years, driving by the different bars with their different music giving me a mezcal-strength shot of nostalgia.

There’s a saying that you have to see it to believe it. But in Mexico, you don’t have to see anything. You only have to feel it. Zama, Pueblo Magico or Tulum. Whatever you call it, it will always answer. I was more present during my seven days in Tulum than in the last seven years. And, on my final night, I caught myself in a moment where I was looking up to the sky. It was like seeing the stars for the first time, everything seemed so magic and bright. There were a lot of stars in the sky that night, but then again, I was on my third margarita… so maybe I was seeing double.

Where to stay

Blow the budget and book a night at Papaya Playa. The hotel comes alive at night time and it’s like an adults playground with giant colourful mushrooms and lights dancing through the forest. Waking up here with your own private pool and view of the ocean is a serious treat for your soul. Expect barefoot luxury and spiritual energy unlike anywhere else in the world.

papayaplayaproject.com

Where to eat

Matcha Mama quickly became my favourite place to be. I spent most mornings in one of their locations, listening to the reggae music that they played while drinking one of their fresh juices and enjoying a healthy smoothie bowl.

matchamama.com

How to get around

ATV Tulum is the go-to place when hiring a quad. It’s the best way to get around in Tulum and you can drive them freely but make sure you’re wearing a helmet – as the police might stop you if not.

atvtulum.com

What to do

There are endless choices of things to do in Tulum. Whether you’re there to party or you want to go zen, Tulum Hype is the company to know. It’s like having access to the little black book of contacts and they’ll hook you up with the best things to do, cenote tours where they take the hassle out of everything and dining options that you otherwise wouldn’t know about.

experiencethehype.com

When people ask me what I love most about my work, I simply answer, “the experiences.” Life, to me, is for living. It’s for finding our true soul’s purpose for exploring and unveiling the secrets of the world we inhabit.

I’ve travelled the globe, jet-setting to destinations I could have only dreamed about before I embarked on my House of Coco journey – but sometimes, even when you’ve just about seen it all, it’s the places on your doorstep that completely blow you away.

I’m fortunate enough to have had the privilege to drive some fantastic cars in my time. Still, nothing quite tops driving a convertible Bentley across the Yorkshire coast.

Wind coursing through my hair, tunes blasting, and the sharp, salty sea air in my lungs, “This,” I think, “This is how life should be every day.”

With gratitude to Bentley Leeds and Route YC, I got to experience an all-new route of the Yorkshire coastline like never before. From Scarborough to Bridlington to Whitby, over five days and four nights this May, I was transported on an expedition of God’s own country that will stay with me for a lifetime.

This new Yorkshire coast trip aims to rival the legendary and iconic Scottish NC500. I’ll bare no bones about it; it does just that and more. Incredible. Spellbinding. An absolute delight from start to finish.

As a proud Yorkshire lass, seeing the coast I’ve travelled before but not via this route left me with an even greater appreciation for where I’m from and what the UK offers. Following the pandemic and the rise of the ‘staycation’, this is an adventure that needs to be at the top of your travel list. Throughout the journey and stops, my days were packed with excursions and incredible experiences that can only be found on Route YC.

Here’s a breakdown of what is in store for you on Route YC:

Day 1

I began the YC Route experience in my very own convertible Bentley (wow, may I add!), calmly cruising across Yorkshire to my first destination in Scarborough. First stop, Wrea Head Hall, an elegant Yorkshire escape surrounded by greenery for as far as the eye can see. This picturesque gothic mansion seeps character in every crevice and perfectly suits my ride’s sheer opulence.

After a quick drop of luggage and freshening up, it was time to stroll through Hayburn Wyke beach waterfall for an idyllic afternoon in the cool May sun. By then, we had worked up an appetite, so dinner at Wrea Head Hall was more than welcome. The oak-panelled dining room and its delicately designed menu will leave you feeling like you’re in a Jane Austin novel.

Once our stomachs were filled and our palates cleansed, it was time to hit the hay for some much-needed rest before our first full day of adventure commenced.

Day 2

Rising to breakfast at Wrea Head Hall was enough to have us shining before we even left. It was then to the Bentley to begin a beautiful endeavour amongst nature. Stopping by Sewerby Hall Gardens to soak in all its natural beauty, followed by a wander through Danes Dyke, burnt off breakfast and built up excitement for our afternoon excursion.

We jumped back in the car onto our next Route YC stop, Bridlington, for Puffin & Gannet Seabird Cruise on the Yorkshire Belle. If the idea of seeing some gorgeous little puffins wasn’t enough to hype me up, we were lucky enough to see dolphins in Bridlington!

There’s a sentence I never thought I’d say and an experience that left my heart brimming. Who even needs the Maldives when you’ve got Yorkshire?

After the most incredible excursion and saying goodbye to the dolphins, puffins, and gannets, we hopped back in the Bents. We headed to our next stay; Raven Hall Country House Hotel and Lodges, Ravenscar.

This place is a must-stay with coastal views and accommodation to suit any need, from single rooms to lodges and cabins. The dining on Route YC is out of this world – the view from the restaurant at Raven Hall overlooks Robin Hood’s Bay and is enough to melt any stress away. Not that we had a single stress to melt after the most glorious day!

Day 3

After finishing breakfast with a view at Raven Hall the following day, we pottered on down to Robin Hood’s Bay. Perhaps the Yorkshire Coast’s best-kept secret. A small fishing village just six miles from Whitby, it’s quaint, beautiful, and Yorkshire to its core.

We then stopped at The Victoria Hotel for a spot of lunch to build back our energy before heading onto Falling Floss. Ambling around Falling Floss, a North Yorkshire National Park (we are renowned for our national parks, by the way!) was the perfect place to switch off and reconnect with nature. You will also be greeted by Falling Floss waterfall; this 30-foot hidden gem is guarded by an abundance of foliage and leaves you wondering if there even is a world outside.

For the evening, it was time to dine like a queen and sleep like a princess at Sneaton Castle, Whitby. Once home to the Sisters of the Holy Paraclete, this storybook location is a favourite for weddings, unsurprisingly but is a sure-fire treat for anyone embarking on their own Route YC trip.

The Garden Room restaurant offers a cosy bistro menu for any taste and is the perfect place to unwind after a long day on foot!

Day 4

They say eat like a king or queen for breakfast, and there’s no better place to do it than a castle! It was hard not to get used to the royal way of living as breakfast was followed by horse riding at Borrowby Equestrian Centre. This excursion would have even made Queen Elizabeth beam from ear to ear.

Obviously, by this point in our tour of Route YC, we were feeling rather tuckered out from all the fun, so it was only fair to check ourselves into the spa at Raithwaite Hall accompanied by lunch. Once we were suitably refreshed and relaxed beyond belief, it was time to ditch the Egyptian cotton robes for something with a little more sparkle and fit for a star – the Star Inn the Harbour, that is!

I can think of no better way to end an extraordinary experience than to be delighted by a delicate dining menu hand delivered by such an exquisite Head Chef like Joe Lees. First opened in 2017 by Michelin favourite Andrew Pern, Joe has genuinely brought the eclectic food indulgence usually reserved for ample city dining to his small home coastal town of Whitby.

The menu features freshly-caught seafood and produce from the world-famous North Yorkshire moors. It wouldn’t be an overstatement to say I was in taste heaven. The passion and dedication Chef Joe infused in each dish perfectly complemented the perfect trip. What a genuine joy and truly Yorkshire experience.

For our last pillow stop, The Stables at Whitby – Formally The Cross Butts, a rustic haven bordering the Moor coastline – is one of the most in-demand locations on the route. A tranquil, peaceful night’s sleep in a King Size bed was exactly what was needed to end the most brilliant adventure.

Day 5

I tried to make breakfast at The Stables last an eternity because finishing meant it was time to head home. And while it can’t be denied that after a long and busy trip, there is no better place than home, this experience was honestly magnificent from start to finish and gave me a view of Yorkshire I never thought existed.

Heading home in the Bentley, I couldn’t help but recount the spectacular experience of seeing dolphins swimming through the Bridlington waves or being fortunate enough to taste Chef Joe Lee’s incredible culinary skills. And how could I forget, getting to do it all by way of my very own convertible Bentley – the only negative experience of the entire route was handing back the keys!

Route YC, you’ve captured Yorkshire exceptionally. This is a journey you can embark on at your leisure, by car, bike, foot or even boat, as I came to find! There is absolutely nothing ordinary on Route YC, and believe me, you’ve never experienced the Yorkshire coast like this before!

routeyc.co.uk