How GPS and GPS Tracking Can Benefit A Taxi Company

The GPS, or the Global Positioning System, has changed the way people drive. You no longer need to write down complicated directions to a friend's house, or pull over and unfold a giant map to try to figure out where you are. The GPS allows you to know where you are at all times and to give you fast directions to wherever you need to go. In fact, the GPS has tons of other benefits, which makes it perfect for a taxi service. There are tons of reasons why taxi services should install GPS units into all of their cabs, the following are four of those reasons.1. Monitoring Your CabsThe responsibility of your drivers is important. Although you should be able to trust your drivers, having a GPS unit in their car allows you to track where they are going at all times. This means if they stop off at a bar for an hour or so while on the clock, you'll be well aware. And if one of your cabs happens to get stolen, you'll be able to track where it is.2. Instant InformationThe availability of instant information for the drivers is a huge asset. They will be able to pick different routes to their destinations based on current traffic and weather conditions. You will also be able to find out if one of your drivers is closer to a client than others, which helps run your taxi company in a much more efficient manner.


3. Better ServiceClients will have more accurate information as to when their cab will arrive, as well as how long their trip will take. They won't have to worry about a driver not knowing where they are trying to go or how to get there if it is an obscure location. The driver can just punch in an address into the GPS and several options for routes will come up. The client can even ask for a specific route. The fact that the GPS also updates delays in traffic is a great help as well.4. Saving MoneyUsing GPS will both save and make you money. You will save money off of gas since you are able to locate cabs that are closest to clients. You will be able to track the mileage of your vehicles better, allowing for a more accurate schedule in regards to tune-ups. Insurance companies often give cut-rate prices on taxi services that include GPS in their vehicles. You will be more efficient in picking up clients and scheduling your drivers due to the data the GPS provides, which will help save money in the long run.The GPS provides taxi services too many benefits to ignore. If wish to remain relevant as a taxi service, the GPS is a must.

How Are Fractional Jet Cards Used?

Many people would love to fly on private jets, but it is very expensive to do so. Instead, they opt for fractional jet cards. This is a very popular way of being able to enjoy all the benefits of a private airplane. People with a jet card are given access to a several hours of flying time, generally between twenty and fifty hours. These cards have become so popular that almost all on-demand charters now offer them. They have opened the door for all sorts of travelers to enjoy a private jet. A fractional owner is someone who knows what the advantages of flying private jets are, but doesn't want the financial obligation of a lengthy contract that they may not use all the time.So how exactly does this work? Basically, you set up a jet card in such a way that they are actually a sublease of a fractional jet share. A person is able to buy a set amount of prepaid hours of what is known as occupied flight time. The options vary from one provider to the other, but they generally are between 20 and 35 hours. There are also a number of options on the types of aircraft that are available to charter. It is possible for someone with a jet card to have a plane available around the clock offering on-demand charters.


Most, however, have some restrictions on when you can actually fly. For example, a lot of jet card providers will allow people to choose a 325 or a 355 day options. The other 10 to 40 days of the year are generally the most popular travel days, and those with a card have restrictions on travelling on those days. Every time you fly, the actual flight hours are then removed from the amount that is on your card, which is at a pre agreed rate for different types of planes.There are a number of companies that offer jet cards. Companies out there specialize specifically in offering jet cards. Other options that companies offer are special because if any flight hours have not been used up at the end of a set period, they can turn into shares in the company. For someone who is in need of or flies several times a month, a jet card would be a valuable option to look into. The best place to start your search would be online so you can check out all the company has to offer and then go with the best choice for your situation.

Cargo Straps

There is a lot of value in using professional cargo straps or other mover supplies or safety for the cargo products. Without these, precious cargo can sustain damage, sometimes irreparable, sometimes costing you a lot of money. So rather than taking such a risk, with just a fraction of the costs you would stand to have to put into the damages, you can purchase the right accessories that will insure your cargo is safe.But it's not always the safety that the accessories can tackle. Just as well, the tie down straps, for instance, can be used to secure your cargo so as to allow more space to fill, thus increasing your overall cargo space and, evidently, your company's productivity with each transport it makes.The company that produces the tie downs, the tow and recovery straps and the entire line of safety products for vehicular cargo transportation, that kind of company can also sell wheelchair tie downs. So, your best bet when looking for this kind of accessory is to go in a search for strapping and for truck safety accessories.It's also probable to find your safety flags sold by a company that manages cargo shipping or truck safety, rather than check other less probable sources. As a representative of a company that looks for these kind of acquisitions, you will also have to familiarize yourself with the types of straps, and flatbed product that you need to get. The dimensions and the type of screw they have, of course, when applicable, will dictate their functionality and their best placement.


A ratchet strap for instance will be different in certain ways from a winch strap, so no matter which one you need, a good company who retails them will have both kinds and more, at any given time. Quality synthetic materials, coupled with the right metallic accessory and at times, even the availability of these tie downs in different colors can be very important as well.Truck safety and mover accessories and supplies can really make a difference when it comes to a company's foolproof transportation. But you don't even have to be in transportation to be in need of a good set of lifting slings or other accessories of the same kind. While these too can be obtained from the same company, they will definitely be able to address the needs of storage container owners or of people that want to tidy up their facilities, by stacking containers together, or by segregating different areas with the help of ratchet strap.So, if you manage to find a company that is both well supplied as well as great in terms of the quality of the accessories it sells, for strap supplies for motor vehicles and for other, needs, you should stick with them for those accessories. You will get good discounts at times, the ability to order from the comfort of your own home or office and an increasingly large and better set of products, to suit your specific requirements.

Recommended Restaurants for Business Meetings

You will never run out of food choices in Thailand. It's one of those countries that promise 10 pounds in three days. In fact, you don't even need restaurants. You can pretty much walk the street and you will most likely find something that will satisfy your cravings. However, if what you are after is a food and a place where you can talk business, you will not find that in every restaurant.Below is a list of restaurants worth checking out for business meetings.Mandarin OrientalThere are eight restaurants within the hotel. If you want to go French, check out the Le Normandie. The China House specializes in Chinese cuisine. They also offer other Asian food. If you want some seafood, head to Lord Jim's and The Verandah if all you want is coffee and some pastries. Their house blend is good enough but they also serve cold coffee. You can also try the BBQ Riverside Terrace if you want to feel homey. If you want authentic Thai cuisine, the Sala Rim Naam Thai Restaurant is where you will find that. You can also stay out and bask under the sun in the Terrace Rim Naam and Ciao. Finally, if you want to have some drinks, try the Afternoon Tea and The Bamboo Bar.MadisonLocated that the Four Seasons Hotel, you will find the best steaks in Bangkok in this restaurant. They also offer Asian cuisines. You might want to start out with the bread that are served right out of the oven.It doesn't have a very good view but the interior gives a very subdues aura. The place is relatively quiet and spaces between tables allows for a free conversation.KuppaThe place is just one of the most spacious restaurants you will ever find. The floor to ceiling windows also give the place a more "open" feel which can truly relax guests. This place is especially recommended if you are meeting an Australian. It is owned by a Thai and an Australian and you will that it is evident in their menu. They offer Australian beef and traditional Thai food.


Blue ElephantIf you are in the area of Sathorn, Blue Elephant is the best restaurant for business meetings there. You will not only get good food but the place itself can serve as an icebreaker because of the history of the building. It is more than a hundred years old and it is also a cooking school. The restaurant did well in incorporating the nostalgic edge they have by having dishes like Forgotten Recipes.Calderazzo & UgoliniIf you ever find out that you are meeting with someone who wants Italian food, take them here at the Caderrazzo & Ugolini. Their food is at par with dishes from restaurants in Italy. They also have the best wine selection in all of Chidlom.Tapas CafeAs the name would imply, the restaurant offers Spanish Cuisine and there is nothing better than Tapas. The place itself looks and feels more homey than other restaurants. The service is the same as what you will get in restaurants in 5-star hotels but the ambiance feels more casual. I would also suggest ordering right away because it takes them some time to cook the Tappas. You might be able to finish your meeting before it arrives.For more tips on Bangkok click here

Taking Your Kids On The Road

For many truckers it is difficult to work on the road and also have time to spend with your kids. One option that may be worthy of consideration is to take the kids on a shorter road trip with you so you can spend time together and see a bit of the country.Most kids are naturally very interested in what Mommy or Daddy do for a living and riding along on a road trip may be the highlight of their summer or school holiday long weekend. Of course, you do have to keep several things in mind when deciding if this is the right type of activity for both you and your kids.The following points can be used to help you determine first if this is a good option and then what you need to consider for the kids safety, comfort and contentment on the journey.1. How young is too young?This is really a practical consideration that you need to think through, with your spouse or partner, before even talking to the kids. General the kids need to be old enough to sit for several hours at a time without becoming really antsy and irritated. They should also be old enough to sit securely in the truck seat with the safety belt securely in place. For younger children a booster seat may be required to ensure that they are safely and properly in the vehicle.Children in their elementary school years will enjoy shorter travels while those that are middle and high school are often game for longer trips. Usually children under school age will be comfortable in the truck if the other parent, or another adult they trust, is around to keep them entertained and occupied.2. What does my spouse or partner think?It is really important that both parents are on board with this decision. This is true for both married or living together parents as well as those that are separated or divorced. If one parent is not in agreement it may be important to spend time talking about the issue and sharing ideas rather than to simply take the child and create friction or future problems in the relationship.3. What do my kids want?While Mom and/or Dad may think a summer on the road traveling to new places is a great idea, kids may have a completely different preference and agenda. This becomes more problematic as the kids get older and want to spend their summer with friends and doing activities in their home community.It is important to find out from your child if he or she is interested in coming with you. This question should be posed without trying to guilt the child into saying they want to go. Often leaving the door open by saying, "If you want to come with me in the truck, let me know and we will organize a trip you will enjoy" is a much better option than simply assuming the child will want to go.4. What is company policy?If you are an owner-operator you can set your own policy regarding kids riding along. However, if you work for a company it is a good idea to verify with a manager that the kids can ride in the truck. If there is not a written policy in place you may want to ask for written consent for the child to travel in the company truck. This will prevent any misunderstanding or miscommunication and will also support your actions if someone ever questions that the children were along.


5. How long of a trip for the first time?As a parent you know your child better than anyone else. Generally the younger the child the shorter the first trip should be to ensure that if there is a problem or if the child is not enjoying the trip it isn't a lengthy time they are away from home. Some kids will travel happily for days with Mom or Dad while others may become bored in the first few hours on the road. Remember, even though you are spending your time with your kids you are still at work and have schedules to follow and loads to pick up and deliver.Once you have determined that the trip is on, you then have some advanced work to do. To make the first trip a success for both the parent and the child be sure to consider the following:• Talk to the child about the rules for riding in the truck. This could include things like wearing the seatbelt at all times, remaining in the cab when the truck is at the dock or when picking up or dropping of a load, or getting assistance in getting in and out of the truck for younger kids.• Talk about the fact that Mom or Dad is at work and, while there will be times to look around and see the sights, during the days or nights you will be driving and your attention will have to be on the road.• Take some games, electronic devices, books or activities that the child can do in the truck to minimize the risk of boredom and irritability.• Schedule your route to make frequent stops where the child can get out and run, spend some time out of the truck and interact with you when you aren't focused on the road.• Try to plan the route to stop in areas of interest to a child. This could include a park, a museum, an attraction or something of interest to the child.• Check to make sure all places you have to enter with your truck allow children in the vehicle. Liability issues have led many companies to have very strict policies about who can even be in the cab let alone outside of the vehicle on their premises.• Have a contingency plan where the other parent can come and meet you should the child become bored, ill or simply not want to travel with you.Taking kids on the road can be a wonderful experience for all involved. However, you do need to plan in advance and take into considerations several factors to make this a memorable time for your child.

The Need For Printer Cases On The Road

Printers are expensive pieces of equipment. They can cost upwards of thousands of dollars depending on the features. When you're on the road, who knows what's going to happen? That is why it is important to own printer cases. Whether if you travel a lot to see family or your company is constantly doing trade shows, a printer is almost always needed.There are very few companies that can thrive anymore without attending some form of a trade show. In most cases the trade show does not give a lot of the equipment the business will need to succeed so it is pivotal that they bring their own. People want information on whatever it is a company is offering or displaying at a trade show. If these shows are a commonplace practice for a business, it is more cost-effective to use the company's own printer and not run to a copy place every time.Using printer cases is the smartest way to transport this expensive equipment so it can make it to the destination and back every time without fail. How often do you watch the airport workers tossing baggage into the bottom of the plane as if every piece of luggage has fluffy, indestructible pillows in it? Well your $3,000 printer probably won't land as smoothly as the bag of pillows. These protective cases will keep equipment safe in a situation such as this.


There is a lot of other important equipment to consider for this type of convention as well. Trade show cases are very useful for the display. More often than not if you are going to a show, the host will offer either no tables or some old wooden table. One way to remedy this problem is by bringing your own trade show cases. These are usually equipped with an easy assembly table that fits in a compact case. Once assembled, the table is a much more aesthetically pleasing addition to the company's set. The better a business' set looks, the better chance it will have to leave a good impression.Lastly, a business that attends trade shows should have cases for all of their other equipment as well including accessories. If there is a television displaying a presentation, that definitely needs to have a case. Keyboards and other smaller, but just as useful, tools must also be in cases. It may seem like overkill, but keeping your equipment safe will prevent you from losing big sums of money with something you cannot control and also save the business a lot of frustration.

How to Conduct a Smooth Last Minute Moving?

It is true that people move houses, states and even countries for a variety of different reasons. People move out of their houses as they don't like their neighborhoods, people change states and move houses as they get a bigger and better job while entire families move countries to get a shot at earning more. There may be a variety of different reasons for moving places but the thing that remains constant will all relocations is that they are not fully planned and usually happen in a rush. Last minute moving can become a big headache if not handled professionally with the help of truck rental companies.Truck rental companies offer and help facilitate moving houses by providing transportation services. One always needs a large transportation medium to move all the household items that will be moved along with the family and the truck rental companies provide just that. The truck rental companies offer different types of transportation mediums like moving vans, medium sized trucks and large-size trailers and it depends on the quantity and size of the items that need to be moved. If one does not have large goods to move then a small moving van should be enough while if furniture, master-beds and other large items needs moving then a medium to large size truck is used. To help facilitate quick contact in case of last minute moving, truck rental companies have online websites and they can be easily contacted through the website.


Some truck rental companies not only rent trucks or moving vans to help facilitate last minute moving but also offer labor and packing items so as to further help the client. When moving at the last possible moment, having labor to pack the goods and load them into the transportation medium can be really helpful. The client mostly has the choice whether to choose this service and if the client doesn't want labor and packing items then moving companies simply offer a transportation medium along with a driver to move the goods.It is important to note that the truck rental companies provide quotes after analyzing the size of truck that one would need and the distance that needs to be covered. Moreover, extra charges for labor and packing equipment (if used) are also inducted in the final quote. One can easily ask two or three truck rental companies about the quote before finally settling for the company that offers the best rate.

Pets On The Road: Tips For Truckers

There are a lot of drivers today that want a bit of company in the cab but don't want a team driver or a partner. For some people a spouse or family member can ride along for companionship, but for others the best possible option is to have a dog with them on the road.Dogs, like people, can make great companions or they may not be a good option. Truckers need to consider several factors when determining if a dog is the right choice in their truck. Taking a bit of time to consider breed factors, size, exercise levels and even the training of the dog and what you want the dog to do is essential before deciding your four-legged co-pilot.Breed SelectionWhen you stop at a highway rest station you will find a variety of different dogs out there with their truck driving owners. It is not uncommon to see small breeds of dogs as well as some huge dogs, but there are some pros and cons to each option.Small dogs are usually a good match in the smaller spaces of the cab and sleeper of a truck. There is really no comparison between a Chihuahua and a Great Dane when it comes to how much space they will take up, especially in the sleeper area of the truck.Breeds traits are easier to predict in purebreds than in mixed breeds, so if you know you want a particular personality or temperament it choose a purebred from a reputable breeder. Of course all dogs will have their own personality but it is largely determined by genetics combined with how they are raised and socialized.You may want to think about the actual logistics of a particular breed or type of dog as well. If you choose a long haired breed that sheds you are going to have issues with dog hair as well as possible issues with a wet, muddy companion in the truck on those miserable days. Short haired dogs can also shed but you won't have long hairs to deal with. Non-shedding or very low shedding breeds are available in all sizes and types, something that is well worth considering.Energy and Activity LevelsBesides the breed traits and characteristics you will need to consider the energy and activity levels that the dog will require. Many small breeds, including the very popular terriers, are generally considered to be high energy dogs. High energy dogs typically will not mellow out with age and even senior dogs will need lots of time to run and play. This doesn't mean they can't be good dogs in the truck, but you will need to schedule regular times for the dog to get out and burn off some energy.


Dogs that are moderate to low energy levels are usually a good match for the more sedate lifestyle of a trucker's dog. They can be calm in the truck and sit and watch the miles roll by but then ready to get out and run and play when you take a break. Having a dog like this is motivation for you to take a walk and get away from the road for a few minutes every couple of hours or so.Puppy Or Adult DogWhile it is a good idea to get a puppy used to traveling in the truck as soon as possible, practical issues also need to be considered. A puppy that is not "truck-trained" is going to be a problem and one that can cause distractions when you are trying to stay on a schedule or just pay attention to the traffic.Puppies, as well as older dogs to a lesser degree, will need ongoing training and socialization. This means that you need to spend a bit of time every day in training and allowing your dog to be around other dogs and people. For most truckers this isn't a problem and can be a great way to unwind after a long day on the road.Protection or Companion?Some truckers want a dog that is there purely for companionship. This really leaves the breed and size selection up to personal preference as well as individual dog temperament. If you want a dog that is also going to be a protection or guard dog for the vehicle and yourself you will want to select a larger dog that will be respected by others.Not all large breeds are natural protection or guard dogs. In fact, many of the large breeds, especially the popular breeds like Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers and most of the hound breeds are very friendly and, while they may bark, they are more likely to quickly befriend a stranger than to actually protect your vehicle.Staying SafeRegardless of the age, breed and size of dog you choose make sure you have the dog microchipped as well as wearing a collar with your cell phone number and information. In addition have a picture of your dog on your phone so it can be emailed to the various shelters or other agencies in the event that the dog gets lost on the road.Always talk to your vet about taking your dog out of your local area, there may be vaccinations that are necessary to protect your pet in different areas of the country or when traveling internationally. Be sure to carry your dog's health and vaccination record with you, especially if you are crossing the border into Canada or Mexico.

Winter Driving Safety Tips For Big Rig Drivers

Driving a truck means working in all types of weather conditions. With strange weather patterns spreading snow and ice even in the southern states it is important, as fall and winter approaches, to take some time to plan for winter driving conditions and brush up on ideas to stay safe on icy, wet and snowy roads.The key to winter driving for truckers, as for any other type of driver, is to make sure to be prepared. The good news is that there are now a number of apps for smartphones as well as automatic notification programs that can alert you to problematic winter driving conditions and bad weather miles before you reach the area. This not only lets you prepare for the difficult roads but it also may allow you to plan alternate routes that keep you out of the worst of the weather.Tip 1: Know Your LimitationsJust because you are driving a truck that has a legal weight of over 40 tons and measures 70-80 feet from end of the trailer to front of the cab, it doesn't mean you can across any type of road safely. Ice, snow and combinations of ice and snow can lead to treacherous conditions even on straight, flat roadways. Combine this with curves, hills, stops and turns and you have a definite recipe for disaster.If you are unsure of the road conditions or feel completely out of control in the vehicle stop and pull over. This could be because of heavy snowfall, blizzard conditions or clear visibility but terrible road conditions. It could also be due to concerns about black ice on the road that is impossible to see until you are into a skid. Trying to simply drive your way through is never the answer as stress, tension and mental fatigue will all play a part in making your drive even more dangerous in these types of conditions.Tip 2: Know Your RouteIn the winter it is not advisable to try a new route. It is far better to stay with a familiar route where you know where the chain-up areas are as well as where you can safely pull over to get out of traffic. Knowing your route means you also know where rest areas are located, where parking is available for rigs, and also where fuel stations and restaurants are that are trucker friendly.If you have to take a new route be sure to study the route using a navigation program. Most of the trucker specific travel apps for route planning have very detailed information and are much better than a standard mapping app or program. Many of these also provide the option for travelers and truckers to post current weather conditions, road closures or road conditions that are usually more up to date than anything you will hear on the news or through radio reports. Keep your CB on and listen to the chatter, other truckers will be a great resource as to road conditions and weather issues.


Tip 3: Check Your Truck Each DayWinter inspections before heading out are cold and not much fun, but they are essential for you stay safe on the road. Be sure to check each tire, you don't want to have to deal with changing a flat in the snow and ice. Not only is this difficult to do but you are at greater risk of being injured or, in a worst case scenario, being hit by a vehicle that simply couldn't see you in the snow.Check all airlines and brakes and make sure everything is working and all tires are turning. Sometimes if the truck is parked overnight and the brakes freeze all it takes is backing the truck up to correct the problem.Lights, including those on the trailer sides and top, should all be working. Each bulb adds to the ease of visibility for your truck for other drivers. Always carry a few spare bulbs for all lights on the truck and trailer and change them out as needed.You should also make sure your chains are ready for the season and in good repair. Chains are a relatively low cost way to add grip to your tires, especially when traveling through the mountains or in snowy conditions on less travelled roads.Tip 4: Have The Right Winter GearPlan to have the gear you need to stay warm, frostbite free, and able to work on your vehicle should the need arise. Most winter gear is very compact and easy to store in a small space. With the various thermal materials available you have a good selection to suit the type of conditions you think you may encounter.You should have on the truck with you a good pair of winter boots. These should have a solid sole that has lots of traction if you have to get out on icy roads. In addition look for a winter parka that has reflective material or consider a reflective vest in a large size that will go over your outside coat. Warm hats, several pairs of gloves and a full balaclava are all must have items in your winter kit. Also pack several pairs of warm full length socks so you can switch out wet socks and gloves as needed.Make sure you have road flares and signs as well as a good flashlight and lots of extra batteries. If you have a sleeper make sure you have power, food and a heater that will work off of your inverter. Always travel with your diesel tank full and make sure to use anti-gel with each fueling, don't wait for problems before adding.

Know Which Hotels Are the Best Before You Travel

When you think of hotels, you may think that the only time you need to be selective is when you are going on vacation. While this is an important time to be discriminating, you need to realize that you should always be selective. Things are always changing in the hospitality industry. One place may be on top today and they may fall off the charts by next week. Any time you decide to go somewhere away from home and you need to find accommodations don't forget to start your search earlier on.It helps if you have a good idea of things you want and can't do without while you are away from home. For example, if you need to stay where there is nothing but business professionals around, in order to increase your networking opportunities, then you need to consider staying at places that cater to business folks. If you plan on traveling with kids, then you should really consider kid friendly hotels.Of course, it is only natural that you are going to be concerned about your finances, there is another reason why you need to be diligent about the places you find to stay at during your travels. Even though you may constantly watch some of the best travel sites, in hopes of finding a deal, you need to remember that you are not the only one looking. If you do happen to spot something that looks incredibly enticing, don't just click and make the reservations right away, pick up your phone and contact that place directly and negotiate a better deal. You'd be surprised at how many people use this tactic to get bargains that aren't even being advertised online.


If you are traveling around the same time as some of your friends and colleagues, consider adjusting your travel dates so that they coincide with theirs and see if they would be interested in trying to get a group rate. If you weren't already aware, it is possible to get cheaper pricing by traveling in groups. This can really save you a great deal of money if you are traveling with family as well.Whenever you have a bad experience or concern after staying at any particular place, don't be afraid to let the managers at the place know. If you don't speak up, the managers won't know what they can do to improve your future visits and further accommodate you while you are a guest. In addition to voicing any complaints, make sure you actually take the time to fill out the survey cards. Believe it or not, all hotels look at these. They take into consideration what their guests are saying and make changes accordingly. If you ever happen to need special accommodations, don't be afraid to ask for them either. You will find that the hotels that are willing and able to accommodate you the best are the ones that rank consistently as the best in the industry.

The Advantages Of Making Early Bookings

Gone are the days when you could show up at any hotel and ask for a room without any prior notice. Today, most hotels require visitors to make bookings or reservations before they show up. Advanced bookings are an advantage for both the hotel and the visitor. The hotel is able to plan for the guests when they are expected. The visitors, on the other hand, have the peace of mind of knowing that they have guaranteed accommodation whatever time they turn up.The best way to get cheap accommodation is by booking online. Many online sites offer discount deals for those making reservations. The sites will save you time and effort, and you get much lower rates than you would get by booking directly from the hotel. There are many discounted rates for hotels around the world. The savvy traveler knows how to travel to different locations at a discount, and will even get deals for other services like meals and entertainment.If you are planning a holiday, there are many things you can do to ensure that you save money on your trip. The first and most important step is to research the location on the Internet. Most people are surprised to discover the options that are available online. For every single location, numerous hotels charge different prices. You can visit a certain location and end up spending less than half of what someone else in the same place is paying.


Research is very important as it helps you to find out everything that is on offer. The time or season, when you choose to travel will make a big difference in what you spend. If you travel during the off-peak season, you can take advantage of numerous price discounts. When hotels are fully booked, they can afford to dictate their terms. On the other hand, if the hotel is less than half-full, they are happy for any business and will be more accommodating in their prices.When you make advanced bookings, you are essentially assuring the hotel that you will be visiting. This will help them to prepare for your arrival and you can expect to get great service. Many people do not like to feel ambushed and turning up somewhere without a booking makes people feel unprepared. If you turn up for a hair cut without booking an appointment, you should not be surprised if you are the last person to get service.Those who make early bookings often have the advantage of choosing the best service. You can get the best room or seat, because you have a choice. Those who come at the last minute will have to settle for what is available and in most cases, it is never the best. While the rooms in the hotel may be the same size, the location will make a big difference. There are those rooms that have a better view than others do, and they often go to those who book early.

Grab the Opportunity! Make Money Online

Many people are now making money online because of overflowing online business opportunities. If you reach out to your relatives, friends and former colleagues in the corporate world, you may be surprised to find out that more than half of them are doing well with the home-based internet enterprise.The welcome news is that the home-based enterprise is proving to be beneficial especially for those who persevere. Prospects are good if you are agreeable to putting in substantial time to learn the techniques, build your network, get clients and plan you business strategy. You can jump start your business provided you follow some rules in this particular industry. You have to specialize and build a niche. This is the only way for you to become effective. Identify your target customers and stick to this group. Strategies that work for one niche will not necessarily work for the other. There are no instantaneous results in online work so dismiss the idea of get-rich-quick. It is definitely a necessity to know the fundamentals of search engine optimization, social media marketing and internet marketing.Discover the Different Online Opportunities
Numerous prospects are open to enterprising individuals like you. You can focus on affiliate marketing which is a revenue-sharing undertaking that involves two major parties, the website owner and the online seller. The site owner puts out ads that are meant to promote the vendor's merchandise and bring in prospective customers to the seller's site. You can earn income by means of three online techniques - pay per sale, pay per click and pay per lead.


Another one of the online business opportunities that will surely make money is marketing electronic items that do not require you to manage product inventory, storage and shipping. It has been said that you get 100% profit from making sales. You can even engage in selling other goods or services, remunerated subscriptions and memberships providing important information that consumers are not capable of obtaining anywhere.Why Choose a Home Business?With the home enterprise approach, you do not even have to leave the house to do your work and fulfill your commitments. You do not have to drive or commute. You are even spared from intrigues or competition in the work place. All you have to do is to satisfy the requirements of your clients or be successful in selling if the work concerns online selling. However, it is important to consider the following aspects before you start your own online entrepreneurship:• You have to be ready and this means it has to be a full 100%.
• It is mandatory for you to own a computer and a 24-hour internet connection.
• You need to build self-discipline, stay away from distractions and make a commitment. This means that it is important to prosper through new innovations, challenge yourself and accomplish your objectives as an entrepreneur.
• Spend several hours daily for your endeavor. Your income will rely on the efforts you exert since you are not a full-time employee anymore.

How to Accurately Price Your Courier Work

Over and under pricing are pitfalls that any courier company can fall into. There needs to be the right balance between your cost of operation and customer satisfaction.By having a proper understanding of your customer's needs and the resources that you have available, calculating your quotes does not need to be guesswork.Mileage. This may seem like the most obvious factor to take into consideration but it is surprising how often this can become your greatest pitfall. If your distance calculation is incorrect, this can easily add or subtract hundreds of pounds to your courier work price estimations. Always ensure that you use an accurate system to measure the route distance and the amount of fuel you will be using. Vehicle wear and tear also needs to be taken into consideration and factored into the overall mileage cost.Size and type of delivery. No two loads are the same and having a good understanding of the items to be delivered will help to keep this cost factor accurate. Make sure your courier work has a set pricing structure for oversized items and stick to it. If the individual items are over the dimension size that you have specified, be sure to add in additional cost for the space lost which could have been used to store another package.Discounts. It's a common practice to offer discounted prices for your courier work with repeat customers. This goes a long way to developing and sustaining long term relationships. Offering a discount may reduce your short term profit but will show benefit in the long term when your customers return for repeat business. It is also beneficial to inform new customers that you offer discounts if they choose to use your services on a regular basis.


Binding and packaging. It may not seem like you use many of these materials on an individual delivery basis, but over the course of several weeks the cost of securing and wrapping items can become quite substantial. Not all types of courier work need to offer this facility, but if your company offers this service be sure to add it to the total costing.Airport surcharge. You will need to add this charge as airport deliveries and pickups are often subject to delays, custom checks and multiple security checkpoints. These delays can add up quickly and will result in idle time and lost revenue unless factored into the costing.As you will always want your courier work quotations to be accurate and as competitive as possible, always try to adhere to a set list of pricing guidelines to make sure your customers will keep coming back to you time after time for a great value service.

Why You Need DTP With Document Translation Services

If you've recently requested estimates from companies offering document translation services, you may have noticed a price for "DTP". So what does it mean?DTP, or desktop publishing, is a fairly broad term that refers to creating documents with pleasing layouts on a computer. When it comes to translation, DTP means adjusting the format of the document to ensure that it looks neat and matches the original work's format. Some agencies may refer to it as typesetting or even layout.Why DTP is ImportantDocument translation services will explain to you that the length of a translated text differs from the length of the original. It can land up being shorter or longer, depending on the combination of languages which means the layout doesn't match the original perfectly. The layout issues can either be minor or major - if a paragraph becomes longer in a Word document, for example, so the entire document lengthens. This isn't a big deal usually, but should the translated text in an image extend beyond its original boundaries and thus becomes illegible then there is a problem that needs solving!The document translation services process typically included post-DTP proofreading. This allows the team the chance to see the work in its final form (they're not usually able to see the layout during translation). They can then spot any problems.DTP and Microsoft Word...This is the simplest of DTP routes. In fact, clients might even wonder if the daunting phrase "DTP" is even at all necessary for a simple Word document. That's why many vendors offer DTP as a separate service. That way, if you don't want to pay for layout and prefer to do it yourself, the chosen document translation services will simply deliver a raw, unformatted file.


Microsoft PowerpointPowerpoint files are a little more challenging than Word files for layout. This is due to the fact that there is no flow of text between pages and therefore Powerpoint files aren't that well suited for text expansion. When the translation turns out to be longer than the original copy, it expands past boundaries and displays incorrectly.Images are another common problem. A Powerpoint file typically contains text in images that cannot be edited. This is where document translation services come in handy. They can extract the text from the images for the translation team to work on and then insert it back into the image.The Proofreading PhaseThis is usually an optional step in the DTP process. Ideally, though, all files should go through a proofreading process, even if it's just a quick review. In fact, this is crucial with the more complex files. With Powerpoint and Word documents, a reviewer who has worked on the translation will suffice. With more complex formats, though, a specialist may be required to export the document to PDF to go over and add notes or implement changes.Both DTP and the post-proofreading services are separate from the translation process and that's why they are quoted as a separate rate. That way, if you think you can format a text yourself, you can skip that phase.

What to Look Forward to With Corporate Apartments

Corporate apartments can provide you a significant number of features. When you are in town for a week, a month, or even longer, being comfortable is of the utmost importance. You can move into a fully furnished apartment, making it easy for you to settle in and pretend as though you were at home.Fully-FunctionalOne of the most important aspects of corporate apartments is that they are fully functional. There isn't a single room within the apartment that isn't just like what you would have at home. This includes a full kitchen, a bathroom, a living room, a dining room, and an actual bedroom. By having an actual room for each place, you will have more room to spread out and be more comfortable.Within each of the rooms, they are stocked with all of the things that you would need. This includes sheets in the bedroom, towels in the bathroom, and pots and pans in the kitchen. Once you move in to the corporate apartments, you do not need to supply a single thing. Everything is inside of it, making it easy to move in and get situated instantly.AffordableCorporate apartments are known for being affordable. Whether you are in the apartment because of a work assignment or because you are relocating, you have the ability to save a significant amount of money. You will be able to choose the lease term that works best for you - weekly, monthly, or even quarterly.Because of the corporate apartment being fully functional, you also save money on food, entertainment, and much more. You won't have to spend your money at a laundromat because there is a washer and dryer inside. With a fully functional kitchen, you have the ability to cook your own food instead of dining out each and every night. There's also cable TV and Wi-Fi, allowing you to watch movies, your favorite TV shows, and surf the Internet.


Conveniently LocatedCorporate apartments can be located within the heart of the city. This allows you to be close to everything you need - work, great restaurants, parks, and much more. By being close to everything, you won't have to worry about a significant amount of travel. If you don't have a rental car, you will likely be able to walk everywhere you need - or take advantage of public transportation.Just as the locals live in apartments in the city, you can find apartment buildings featuring corporate apartments to choose from. This allows you to live near where you work. Regardless of where you work, you will be able to find apartments nearby. This makes it more convenient to get to and from work each day without sitting in a significant amount of traffic.You may not always get to specify where you work and what city you are sent to, but you do have the option of where you can live for the time that you are in the city. Corporate apartments can provide you with a significant number of features so that you enjoy yourself a little more.

5 Must Have Accessories For Your Truck

Making the cab of your truck and the sleeper a home away from home takes a bit of planning and budgeting, but it is a very worthwhile investment. After all you want to be able to pull off the road and relax in your truck, not feel like you are deprived of the comforts of home.Once you get the basics; a table, mattress, storage space, a refrigerator and microwave, you can start to add those cool little extras. These items are not always all that expensive and they real add to the features and functionality of your truck cab and sleeper.1. Power Inverter/ChargerThis is a cool little device that hooks up directly to your truck battery or a bank of batteries to convert it to usable AC power in the cab and sleeper. The benefit of having an inverter/charger options is that if you have the ability to connect to an outside power source when you are parked it will automatically keep the batteries in the bank fully charged and ready, without any concern about power drain.The AC power can be used in the sleeper to run any type of electrical appliance. This means you can watch TV, charge your phone and laptop, run your refrigerator and even have a cooktop just like the one at home. This is also a great way to run heaters and air conditioners or sleeper fans in the truck to keep the temperature just the way you want it. Having this capacity to draw from a battery bank also means you don't have to keep the truck idling when you want to use power, a great way to save on the cost of fuel.2. Cupboards And CabinetsCustomizing your sleeper with cupboards and cabinets that are similar to those used in campers and RVs is a real time and energy saver. Everything can be put in storage containers in the cabinet area and secured in place. In addition the doors or drawers in the units are locked when the truck is in motion, preventing spills and endless picking up of containers that slide across the floor.While many truck sleepers offer standard storage under the bed or under the seats, this is rarely enough room for everything you need to have on the road. With the option to fully customize the cabinets you can create specialized spaces for everything from clothes to built-in sound systems, televisions and computer stations.3. Microwave/Convection OvenA convection microwave, also known as a microwave convection oven, offers you a different way to prepare food from a standard microwave. A microwave heats the food from the inside, but it does not brown or crisp up foods. A convection microwave, on the other hand, cooks with the speed of a microwave but gives that great crispy, brown appearance and real roasted taste.


Since the appearance and the texture of food are as important as the taste, opting for the convection microwave is one upgrade to consider. Some also have the ability to actually bake in the oven as well as roast.4. Flat Screen TV and MountThe ability to relax and unwind in the sleeper is a great option and one that is particularly important for those long road trips. A 22 inch flat screen TV is a good choice for virtually any size of truck. The major problem with any type of TV in a truck is the constant vibration. The constant jarring of simply going down the road can cause major problems with the unit in just a few weeks of use.Having a mount for the television that is designed to reduce vibration is critical. You can mount the TV directly onto a wood and then securely attach the wood to the interior surface of the truck. In addition you may also be able to use a telescoping mount and have a locking bracket that the TV rests in when not in use.5. The Best Bed And Pillows Your Budget Can AffordGetting enough rest on the road is a major safety issue. It is also going to help you stay in the professional a lot longer, reduce your stress, and boost your ability to get up in the morning all ready for another day behind the wheel.The standard mattress provided with your sleeper will do, but it is not typically going to be a perfect match for your comfort and for any special requirements you may have. If you look around you will find that many mattress companies offer custom mattresses that are designed for a truck based on the size of the bed frame. Memory foam, cool gel, gel foam, spring and non-spring styles of mattresses are all available.Comfortable pillows are another luxury item you really can't do without. There are all different types of ergonomically designed pillows and even pillows for people that sleep in different positions.Making your sleeper a home away from home doesn't have to be expensive. You can shop online, look for sales and buy items as your budget allows. The most important thing to keep in mind is the more you enjoy being in your truck the less money you will spend on entertainment, lodging and eating out when you are on the road.

Employee Incentives: Why Are Trips Successful Profit Motivators?

An abundance of employee incentives are available for gaining a desired profit increase or the motivation necessary to create a strong workforce; however, travel choices can be considered as the icing on the cake. Lack of employee recognition is a major obstacle to businesses because it entices highly qualified people to go to the competition. It is the same in the world of customer retention and travel awards are a dependable option for providing what is needed to keep these areas in good standing. Why are trip awards such an effective choice for organizations wanting to get more from their employees or customer relationships? A well-planned program consisting of an out of the ordinary location and an exceptional itinerary delivers something individuals can place a value on. The memories created on these trips stay with the individual and are a constant reminder of the supplying organization. This promotes loyalty among consumers and supplies the lasting impression employees need to continue striving toward success.How Can Travel Awards Be Used to Increase Sales?Travel incentives are a rewarding way to increase sales in a department or throughout a company and can be used to:Sign on New CustomersRun an Outside PromotionCreate Healthy Competition Among TeamsEncourage Productivity IncreasesAs a Thank You for Continued LoyaltyEach of these purposes encourages improved profits within an organization and allows a business to give back to those who supply desired results. The approach is a successful choice due to many reasons with the visionary appeal being one of the most apparent. Every individual dreams of the perfect getaway, but often never has the time or money to make it happen. The opportunity to receive this type of award inspires a person to go beyond the bare minimum for a chance at this image they have seen numerous times while daydreaming in their current environment. An incentive directed toward consumers can increase sales by promising an award through a points program or alternative means. Countless organizations use this approach to reach sales goals without creating a negative environment among team members.


An emotional response can be associated with how a chosen incentive drives each individual. Cash rewards generate the question of the total amount being given and stop there. Non-cash choices deliver a stronger emotional tie as participants visualize the possibility of what is being given. It is easy to understand when a person looks at how they respond to a cash incentive. Most individuals think in terms of where the known amount can be applied to pay off bills or take care of another hindering item. Travel creates a fantasy environment where these aspects of life go away and participants are able to daydream about the opportunity. Employee incentives can significantly boost sales when planned appropriately around an enticing reward. It is comparable to the famous home run hit out of the ballpark or the basket made right before the buzzer that everyone remembers long after the occurrence. The right destination, itinerary, and promotional campaign can supply the sales an organization requires to move ahead of the competition.

How to Get Your House Ready for Sale

Buying a house is an exciting event - but if you need to sell one in order to move, it can be deflating! A lot of work may be needed to get both the inside and outside of your home in tip-top shape for listing. There is a systematic process of evaluating your house, room by room, which makes it easy to get ready to sell.To start, write one room name on the top of the paper. Sit in that room and write down everything that needs to be accomplished. The list should start with the following items which need to be cleaned, dusted, washed or organized for every room:Closet - It needs to look organized so potential buyers can see how much of their "junk" they can squeeze in.
Window treatments - blinds, sills and curtains. More sunlight filtering in makes a room appear bigger.
Dresser tops, shelves, bookcases - Clutter looks messy, so put away everything possible.
Door jambs and floor molding
Ceiling fans
CarpetLook for additional items to fix which will make the room appear perfect. Are there a lot of nail holes that should be spackled? Does the carpet have a lot of stains and need to be replaced? Do the closet doors hang crooked? If your budget allows, repair everything to its original state.If the budget can stretch further, allow for new carpet and neutral paint. The term 'resale beige' was created for a reason. People like to see neutrals in a potential house. They might have plans to change to red, blue or green, but until they can afford the change, neutral colors are satisfactory. Neutral colors are easily adaptable in bedrooms. If a wall is a non-gender specific color, bed linens, curtains and pillows can give color to a room without spending the time to remove wall paper and re-paint.High Traffic AreasThe most time a person or a family spends awake in one room is the kitchen. Food preparation, eating, packing lunches and cleaning happen on a daily basis. This room needs to appear roomy and efficient, no matter what size a prospective buyer's family is.Make the refrigerator spotless. Whether the appliance is staying or not, it needs to sparkle on the inside and out. Clean all of the shelves in both parts and throw out old food. Get rid of all of the clutter on top too.Empty the countertops. A countertop full of small appliances, paperwork and odds and ends gives the impression of clutter. Put away as much as possible, while still leaving your cupboards organized. Box up the extra appliances if you don't need them right away.Vacuum the pantry. Take care to clean up spilled food, crumbs and flour residue that usually are left behind. It might be the most popular cupboard in the house, but it doesn't need to look abused.


Use a tablecloth. People love nostalgia. Whether the potential home buyers ever sit down to dinner or not, the look of your table with covering gives a homey feel. Everyone likes to imagine sitting down to a family meal every night, so give them the visual. If it looks like a well used table for your family dinners, it can be for theirs too.The bathroom is another high traffic room, but it gets a bad rap. Sure we clean ourselves there, but it has a reputation of being full of germs. To prove everybody wrong, scrub the sink, toilet and tub. Get rid of rust stains, hard water spots and mildew.Other things to consider in the bathroom include removing important medication. People snoop and the first thing they will probably do is open the medicine cabinet. Use diligence to remove all signs of hair and hair products from the floors, counter tops and mirrors. Lastly, close that nasty toilet lid.When each room is clean and organized, take a last sweep through to make sure all personal pictures are removed. Prospective buyers can imagine themselves in your home more easily if there aren't pictures of you and your family about.Now it's time to hit the outside!If you have a garage, make sure your car fits in it. The garage is meant for cars, but when people look at them, they are really envisioning how much "junk" it will hold. The garage shelves need to be as organized and clutter free as the rest of the house.Remove any evidence of problems. Hide the bag with a mousetrap in it. Put away the bottles of weed killer. Give the appearance your house is perfect inside and out.The yard needs to be mowed, weeded, pruned and trimmed to perfection. After all, the outside is the first impression people have. A professional can be hired is the budget allows, or you are under a time constraint to get everything ready.Check to make sure the roof, siding, soffits, porch, shutters and walkways are all perfectly maintained. Repair paint chips, cracks and leaks. Nail down loose shingles or secure a shutter. The little details you correct will all add more value to your curb appeal.Appearances are everything when selling a house. Keep everything neat and tidy, and your house will sell fast! Organization is attractive to any potential buyer, whether they are organized or not. The hottest thing on the market is clean and move-in condition, no matter what a realtor tells you.

Primary/Secondary School Student Visa

The School Student visa is for students hoping to travel to Australia in order to study in a primary or secondary school. This visa is also for students enrolled in an exchange program.Eligibility:
• Applicants for this visa must:
• Be accepted in a full-time program of study
• Provide proof of acceptance
• Provide proof of intent to stay in Australia on a temporary basis
• Be financially sufficient for study, travel, accommodations and any other expenses
• Meet all health requirements
• Have health insurance (applicants can apply for the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) if they are not from a country participating in a reciprocal healthcare agreement)
• Have English skills required for course of study
• Have a strong academic record
• Meet character requirements
• Pay all debts to the Australian government or have arrangements to repay all debts
• Sign the Australian Values Statement if over the age of 18Applicants for this visa are able to live and study in Australia for the course of the study. The visa will expire after the course of study finishes. Visas for students enrolling in courses for 10 months or less will expire a month after the course is completed. Applicants enrolled in courses lasting longer than 10 months that finish in January through October will have a visa that expires two months after the course is completed. Applicants taking courses lasting 10 months or more that end at the end of the academic year in November or December will be granted a visa through the following March 15.Applicants for this visa are eligible to work while holding the School Student visa, as long as the applicant is of an eligible working age. Applicants are able work a maximum of 40 hours/fortnight during the course study, but while the course is out of session the applicant is able to work unlimited hours.


In order to retain this visa, applicants must:
• Maintain enrollment in course of study
• Have satisfactory attendance
• Make course progress
• Not change education provider within the first 12 months
• Keep education provider informed of any change in address
• Maintain financial security
Applicants for this visa under the age of 18 have additional requirements, including foreign exchange students. Applicants under age 18 must have parental consent, as well as welfare arrangements. Welfare arrangements ensure that the applicant is supported during the proposed course of study.Dependent applications are allowed on the School Student Visa. Family members or partners are eligible to work in Australia up to 40 hours/fortnight and partners are also eligible to study up to three months.For more information on obtaining a visa to travel to, work in or even relocate to Australia contact the Australian Immigration AgencyThe school student visa is connected with the applicant's current passport. The applicant should ensure that the passport will not expire for at least six months after lodging the application. However, if the passport will expire at all during the course of stay, an expired passport can cause significant delays and trouble during travel, and it is best to apply for a new passport before lodging the application.

Guinea: A Muslim, A Jew, And A Dead Christian

As I write this article about my very recent trip to Guinea and Sierra Leone, I am sitting in my hotel room at the Hotel Bronte in Harare, Zimbabwe. This is my first trip to Zimbabwe and... Wait a minute. I am in the middle of my trip here and not ready to write about this adventure yet. You will just have to wait for my article on buying diamonds in Zimbabwe to find out what I was about to say.This article is about my trip to Guinea and Sierra Leone. As a side note, some of you might have noticed that my last article on Sierra Leone has been removed from my website. I am sorry to have removed the article, but there were people in Sierra Leone who were upset by what I wrote and asked me in a "firm" way to please remove it from my website. This article is not a replacement; rather it is a new experience I would like to share with you. I believe my experience may be of value to those who wish to do rough diamond business in Guinea.I was booked to go to Sierra Leone with a new client from Egypt. Although born in Egypt, he grew up in Western Canada. Mas, (not his real name) is 38 years old, highly intelligent, astute, and has a great sense of humor. (Anyone who laughs at my bad jokes have to have a great sense of humor) Mas is a lean, mean, business machine. He is a self-made multi-millionaire and does not suffer fools easily. Mas is the second Muslim client I have worked with, and the first Arab. Sooner or later, every Jew should have their first Arab. Despite what many may think, Jews and Arabs have a great deal in common. If you leave politics and religion aside, you will find many similarities, albeit, few may admit to it.Mas and I got along from our first conversation. By the middle of our two weeks together in Sierra Leone and Guinea, we became good enough friends to make Jewish and Muslim jokes about each other. Mas nailed me with some Jewish stereotype one liners that were just hilarious and I was able to hit him with some barbs that expressed equally irreverent attacks on Arabs. We did all this without resorting to violence.Interestingly, during our conversations on Arab and Jewish culture, we both came to the conclusion, that if Arabs and Jews could ever reconcile and join forces, they could rule the world. Now wouldn't that be scary?A few days before I was to go to Sierra Leone, a close friend, who is also a client, called me up and told me he had some relatively large parcels of rough diamonds available in Guinea. He told me the stones had come to him through his lawyer. He asked me to speak with his lawyer, and see if it made sense to go look at the goods in Guinea. Since I was already going to Sierra Leone, I called up the lawyer.The lawyer, who I will call Mit, is about 60 odd years old, a Princeton Graduate, a former senior Vice President of a major American Bank and licensed to practice law in multiple states. Having done a very thorough background check on Mit, I was very happy to be dealing with an honest, experienced, intelligent, religious Christian. Mit had also attended seminary school and wanted to make a difference in this tired old world of ours.Mit was connected to an African-American Pastor. I mention he is African-American, not because he is black, but because he was born in Sierra Leone. He grew up in the United States and became a citizen of this country. Mit informed me that the Pastor was an engineer who had worked for Honeywell for 30 years. The Pastor was a tall, good looking man in his early 60's who was obviously charismatic and had warm eyes and a ready smile. It turns out I know the Pastor, as he and his associate had contacted me several times in the past.After listening to Mit and the Pastor, they convinced me there was a real opportunity in Guinea. According to the Pastor, a number of local Guinea miners had entrusted the good Pastor to sell the miner's stock of diamonds. The story told, was that the Pastor's mother was a missionary who had spent a lifetime helping the poor in Guinea, and that because of the mother, the Pastor was entrusted.The rough diamonds I was to view, and hopefully buy, were the combined stock of several miners and could be viewed and evaluated at an exporter's office in Guinea. I called my Egyptian client and told him about the buy. He was interested, but the total value of the parcel was beyond his budget. I then called another client and asked if he would partner with my Egyptian client. Upon agreement between my two clients, arrangements to go to Guinea from Sierra Leone were made.When I travel in Sierra Leone to Kenema and Kono and other bush areas, I travel with a security detail. Going to Guinea, we were accompanied by a wonderful man who arranges our security. He has "pull" in Sierra Leone and is well known by the right people in Guinea. In addition, he speaks French, thus making our journey much easier. I cannot tell you how many times we were spared expense and hassles because of this man.The road to Guinea takes about 9 hours from Freetown. The road in Sierra Leone is good by African standards. However, once we passed the numerous checkpoints into Guinea, the road became a nightmare. You should know that when you drive to Guinea from Sierra Leone, you will encounter no less than 15 checkpoints. Several are close together on the Guinea side, where you must present your papers, and where your luggage will be searched. I must say, all of the checkpoints on both sides of the border were manned by professional staffs that were both courteous and friendly. Of course, it does not hurt to have a recognized, high ranking security man with you on such occasions.Upon arrival, we met with Mit. Mit is a smallish, somewhat weak or frail looking man with poor eyesight and heavy glasses. Perhaps, to hide his lack of physical stature, he has a quick and somewhat explosive temper. I was on the receiving end of his over reacting temper several times. That being said, he is a sincere man and despite his anger issues, is quite nice and likeable.Mit arranged for us to meet the Pastor the next morning. At our meeting, the Pastor seemed very sincere and explained how he wanted to use the funds he would make on this deal to help the people in Sierra Leone and Guinea. I liked him. He was obviously very intelligent, articulate and detailed our venture like you would expect an engineer to work.Our meeting at the exporter's office was arranged for that afternoon. Mit, Mas and I were picked up in a very nice Land Rover by the Pastor and his young driver. As we drove to the meeting, the Pastor passed the time talking of his relationship with the miners. Although Guinea is mostly a Muslim country, he was able to make inroads into the villages because he would bring in containers of donated food and clothing for the poor. He believed he could spread the Word, if he helped to relieve the people's suffering. I could see why Mit held him in such high regard. As a matter of fact, Mit had attended some of the good Pastor's sermons and was quite moved by his preaching.We arrived at the exporter's office. It was a compound with 12 foot high, light brown colored, stucco walls. The wall surrounded the entire compound, and for further security, the windows were protected with iron bars. It was a nice place, and looks like it is used as both an office and a residence. There was a late model purple Porches sitting in front of the house. As we were ushered into the office, I saw the exporter. I was instantly relieved because I know him, and have had a couple business dealings with him in the last two years.After exchanging pleasantries, we sat down to do business. The exporter informed me that they had several parcels and they had already been sealed for Kimberley Certificates. Apparently, another buyer had contracted to purchase the parcels, paid for the taxes and at the last moment could not pay for the stones. He asked me not to break the seals unless I was serious about buying the stones as it would invalidate the KPC.I had had a call from London a day before I left for Sierra Leone. The young man, who called, told me he needed my help. He said, he had contracted to buy a parcel in Guinea, had paid the taxes from his own funds, and then his buyer backed out of the deal at the last minute. He was hoping I had a customer who could buy the goods. He was quite convincing. I did not know at the time that these were the same parcels.


The memory registered in my thick little brain and I figured today was my customer's lucky day. The exporter showed me a copy of the KPC and the government docs for taxes and export. In addition he handed me the invoice made out to the other customer.The exporter asked me to do him a favor. He had a stone with a fracture through the middle of the stone and asked me to tell him what the yield of the stone would be after cutting. I did not look closely at the stone other than to see the fracture location. I did not need to look at the stone closely to know his yield would be around 25% of the rough weight. I handed the stone back to him and he took it to the other room with him.When he returned, he had a parcel of sealed stones with him weighing 7000 carats. The stones were all large and white and from across the table looked pretty clean. Just then an older white man, perhaps Lebanese, came into the room and told the exporter his other customer has arrived and was waiting to see him.I paid little attention to the man, and picked up the manifest to see what the parcel consisted of. The manifest said the stones were all Sawable 1 (See my website or Google "Sawable I" if you are unfamiliar with the term) 5 to 25 carat, D to I color, VVS clarity. These were very, very nice stones.I picked up the parcel and checked the parcel for fluorescence. Not a single stone fluoresced. There were a couple hundred stones; how unusual. Next, I noticed there did not seem to be any stones in the parcel under 8-9 carats; how strange. After this, I was further surprised to see that not a single stone had any triangular shaped TRIGONS, That was also very weird. For those of you who are interested, you can see examples of trigons if you go to Google Images and type in the word trigon.When a stone has a trigon, it is absolute proof it is diamond. The absence of trigons however, does not mean it is not a diamond. In addition, diamonds have characteristic step like growth and fracturing. Like trigons, the absence of step growth or fracturing does not mean it is not a diamond. Each stone in this parcel was absolutely without any step fractures or growth, very interesting indeed! I began to examine the parcel more closely, when I noticed that inside the SEALED parcel, is the very stone the exporter had just asked me to examine. The stone was very unique. How could it possibly be in this government sealed parcel?So... let's see, maybe I should do a little review here: Not a single fluorescent stone from a country with a high percentage of fluorescent stones.Not a single Sawable 2 or Makable 1 or 2 in a country that has mostly Sawable 2, Makable 1, and Makable 2.(Sawable and Makable are rough diamond shapes)Not a single stone was less than 8-9 carats. Yet, the manifest clearly stately the parcel contains stones from 5 carat and above.Not a single trigon. It is possible for some of the stones to be without trigons, but is it possible to have 200 plus stones without a single commonly seen trigon?Not a single step growth or step fracture. It is possible to have some stones without the steps, but is it possible to have 200 plus stones without a single step?I put the parcel down. I looked at my good buddy the exporter, and my new friend the Pastor and MIt. I looked at my customer. All eyes were upon me with great hope and expectation. I then said;" These look good, but I need to test them to be sure each one is a diamond. However, the exporter has another customer waiting. Why don't we let the exporter take care of his other customer, while we take a little break, and get a quick lunch and tea. I will check the stones when I get back."The exporter asked;: "How are you going to check them, they are all sealed?""Don't worry; I have a tool that will let me test them."Everyone agreed to go have lunch. I gathered up all my gemological equipment and with a smile, told the exporter we would see him in an hour. We started driving towards a restaurant near our hotel. I have several weapons I carry with me and had my most trusted weapon in my hand. As we were almost at the restaurant, I casually stated that I believe the stones were not real. As we pulled into the restaurant, everyone was suddenly silent. We all got out of the car; I scanned the restaurant and my surroundings. There was no one else in the restaurant and I took a seat with my back to the wall as I motioned for my client to sit beside me. The good Pastor and Mit sat opposite, with the driver at the end of the table. I had my weapon still in my hand. Mit stared at me intensely; "What do you mean, the stones are not real? You have not even tested them!""Mit, I tested them, believe me, they're fake."Mit turned absolutely white. All the color drained from his face, and he looked like he was having a heart attack or a stroke. He shook severely. I was afraid he was about to collapse. Both Mas and I looked at Mit and saw that he was going to die right at the table in front of us. I prepared to rush to his side to do CPR. Urgently, we called the waiter and got poor Mit some water.Meanwhile, the driver sat silent and the Pastor turned to me. He was not upset, did not seemed fazed by the news whatsoever. He said inquisitively; "We watched you look at the stones, but you did not test them, you need to do a "real" test. " Putting on his engineer's hat, he said; "You have only one data point, you cannot make assumptions without verification of your data point. Perhaps, if you are not satisfied with these stones, we can go back and we can look at the other parcels."Then he smiled ever so sweetly. Poor Mit was slumped in his chair. He died right there and then."Please take us back to the hotel." I said desperately. We put Mit's body in the car and drove the few blocks back to the hotel. The Pastor and his driver did not bother to say goodbye as Mas and I brought the body of Mit into the hotel and sat it down in the lobby.As Mas, the Muslim, me the Jew, and Mit the dead Christian sat in the lobby, I explained how I knew the stones were not diamonds. It took less than a minute to know they were not real. Mas was very unhappy. This little trip from Sierra Leone cost him about $5000. I had previously told Mas that I would not charge my time fee for Guinea unless we bought goods. This meant I was out thousands of dollars as well.Because Mit was dead, he could not hear what I was telling him. I tried to explain it to him over and over, but his faith in the good pastor was so strong it had killed him. Mas was upset, but Mas has a strange sense of humor. He looked over at poor dead Mit, and exclaimed that he was going to fire me because I do not know what I am doing. He pleaded with dead Mit to arrange another meeting on Monday to look at the goods again. He told Mit's body that he was going to go through with the deal regardless of what I said.We took Mit's body up to his room. Fearing, what the thieves might do, Mas and I prepared to leave Guinea. It was Friday. Mas wanted Mit's body to arrange for a meeting Monday with the sellers. The hotel we were staying at costs $280 per night. If Mit's body was not discovered, his bill would increase $280 per day until at least Monday. We, on the other hand, could already be back safely in Sierra Leone the next day.For the next three days. Mas called Mit's body repeatedly and told it he would be there on Monday to complete the deal. Mit's body believed Mas, and arranged a meeting with the Pastor for Monday afternoon. However, at the last minute, Mas canceled the meeting. He canceled the meeting because Mas does not like to deal with thieves, idiots and dead people.Postscript: No horses were harmed in the writing of this article. Mit's body was returned to the U.S, and continues to practice law in Colorado despite being brain dead. The pastor still owes Mit a lot of money for legal work he performed. The exporter, who told us he is a Christian, continues to go to the Mosque to pray. The Pastor is still running around trying to steal from people in God's name. The customer from London called me, and threatened me if I exposed them. I told him I do not have to expose them, their stupidity will reveal them. They really don't need any of my help.Me? I'm sitting in my hotel room in Zimbabwe talking to you."Time will either promote you, or expose you."

Vacations And The Planning Behind Them

Traveling is a passion for many people. The thrill of visiting a destination for the first time and learning about the place and its culture is a feeling which no other compares to. The thought of just quitting your job and ridding yourself of all responsibilities to just travel the world is one that must have occurred to us all at some point. The feeling of seeing new places and experiencing new cultures and schools of thought make for memories and recollections which you would remember till the day you die. Every new place you visit, whether abroad or within your own country, has several places to visit and things to do which ensure you are never bored. The amount a new place can surprise you is endless, the cuisine you eat, the cultural activities you can witness, the places you see and the hospitality you get from the local people, all shape up your holiday and make it one which you will never forget.However, before you embark on a holiday there is a lot of planning required in order to make sure you do not reach your destination and not know what to do. The first thing you need to plan is the mode of transport you are going to take to reach your holiday spot. Some people prefer to take a flight to wherever it is they are going, this is obviously the most convenient and least time consuming mode of transport as you can reach the other end of the world in a couple of hours. For holidays within the country, people like to take the train as it gives one a lot more insight on the place you are going to. So many people love train journeys and the whole experience of stopping at each little station till you reach your desired destination. Also, a handful of people still prefer taking a road trip to their destination, as a road trip is the best prelude to your vacation and the memories and experiences you have along the way make for a vacation in itself.


Another very important thing which requires thought before setting of on your holiday is your luggage. The last thing one would want is being in a foreign land and realizing you have forgotten something important back home. In order to avoid such a scenario you must carefully pack your travel gear.

Portable Exercise Equipment For The Road

While you are on the road you don't have to give up your workout routine nor do you have to resort to simply walking or jogging to get in your daily 30 minutes of exercise. There are many different options when it comes to compact, lightweight workout devices that will help you to stay committed to fitness and health while not taking up your entire cab and sleeper.There are obviously different qualities of portable equipment. Surprisingly, the actual price of the equipment is often not an indicator of how effective, efficient or helpful the specific device actually is. A lot of the stuff that you see advertised on late night commercials for low prices is relatively useful and durable, but it may not be up to the wear and tear of being constantly moved and used on a daily basis.Most of the best types of portable workout systems use resistance types of methods for strength training and stretching. This means that while the equipment is lightweight it is designed to use your own body weight as the actual lift or pull. You should also consider equipment that offers strength or core training for more than one body part. You don't want to have equipment for your legs, abdomen and upper body if you can find one device that has multiple functions and uses.Equipment that has you standing, rather than sitting, is another factor to consider. When you are standing to workout you are burning more calories just by the position of your body. As your core muscles, the large muscle groups of the body, move to keep you in balance you add to the overall workout. The same is not true if you are lying down or in the sitting position when working out. While this won't add to your calorie burning potential by huge numbers, it will add up over time. You will also find that your balance and core muscles become stronger, helping to prevent injuries to your legs and back.Below are a few easy to travel with exercise equipment options. You don't have to have them all; you can pick and choose which options work best based on your fitness needs. Remember that one of the best exercises for cardiovascular health and fitness is still a brisk 15-30 minute walk or light jog and, other than a good pair of athletic shoes, there is no additional equipment needed for this activity.KettlebellsWhile these are range in weight and are a bit bulky, they are a great all round strength training piece of equipment. They come in a range of different styles and designs but are basically a large round weight with a flat bottom which has a rounded handle, like an old fashioned kettle handle, out of the top. These can be used for all upper and lower body types of strength training.


Generally you will need one light and one heavier kettlebell, but this will depend on your current strength training program. There are also adjustable options that allow you to add weights to one kettlebell to adjust the weight.Resistance BandsThese are basically longer, very thick elastic bands with two handles, one on each end. The bands can come with a variety of different handles and end straps that just clip on to the end for different types of exercises. Basically they look a lot like thicker bungee cords until the handles or end straps are attached.The bands are designed to provide different amounts of resistance from light resistances of five or six pounds to over 20 pounds. These are great for both upper and lower body workouts and are essential for abdominal workouts and toning.Mini-Trampolines Or ReboundersLook for a folding model that will slip in against any wall or behind your seat. These are smaller, lower trampolines that allow you to run in place without having to find a jogging trail. These trampolines are a great option for individuals that find that high impact activities such as running or jogging cause joint or back pain.You do have to be careful when using a Rebounder and take is slow until you get the feel for the device and improve your balance. Remember you aren't jumping for height; you are using these for running in place or jumping at low levels on the spot.Folding BikesWhile these are a bit larger and take up more space than the other equipment mentioned, they are a good idea. These bikes are usually right around two hundred dollars but, with a little care, they will last a lifetime. When folded most models are going to be less than 12 by 30 by 25 inches and they tend to weigh in at about 25 pounds.These bikes are designed for street riding or riding on fairly level surfaces. The bike is a great option for getting out and seeing the area and is a good alternative to jogging or walking for the cardio part of your workout.Regardless of what type of exercise you do, getting in at least 30 minutes of cardio and strength training every day will help you stay fit on the road. It will also help you sleep better and stay alert, something that is important in this high demand profession.

5 Must-Have Gadgets to Speed Up Courier Jobs

Do you find yourself constantly scrambling trying to keep pace with the demands of courier jobs piling up left and right? Find out how to survive and thrive in the courier fast lane.When it comes to speeding up deliveries and meeting deadlines on various courier jobs, technology can be your most powerful ally. All delivery drivers should be fully equipped with useful gadgets to enhance efficiency. In fact, instead of contemplating hiring additional manpower, you may just need to upgrade and invest in certain gadgets that help get the job done right and on time.Here are the top five indispensable gadgets every professional driver should have on hand to carry out courier jobs on time, all the time.1. SmartphoneIn this fast paced world, a smartphone has become an indispensable gadget, especially for anyone in the transport industry. With the full range of apps readily available, it can be the invaluable lifeline one needs to manoeuver around certain situations and challenges, especially when you are working against time. Whether it's navigating unfamiliar territories or finding a parking space or the nearest gas station, all this information can be conveniently accessed with a few clicks of the button.2. Digital CameraHow does a digital camera become an invaluable tool for courier jobs, you ask? When constantly on the road, one can't be too prepared. A camera can prove to be very handy for documenting mishaps. For example, it is always a good idea to take photos of road accidents and crashes, no matter how minor, as it can be very important when processing insurance claims.


3. Sat NavEvery professional driver, whether you are in the transport business or not should be equipped with a Sat Nav. This is especially useful for carrying out delivery jobs in areas that you are not really familiar with. This will prove to be an indispensable gadget if you want to consistently arrive at your destination on time or possibly quicker. It also cuts down the risks and frustration of getting lost.4. Hands-Free KitTaking important calls while driving is made possible with a nifty hand-free kit that helps you talk while keeping your focus on the road. Whether it's updating the boss or contacting a customer, hands-free kits save you from the hassle of having to stop just to take an important call.5. USB Power AdaptorWith all your essential gadgets keeping you company, you definitely don't want to run the risk of rendering everything helpless simply because you have run out of batteries. This is why it makes sense to invest in a USB power adaptor, which you can simply plug into your vehicle's cigarette lighter to charge your phone or any other gadget.Making Smart InvestmentsWhen running your business and ensuring all courier jobs are carried out seamlessly, the above mentioned gadgets can easily become a strategic investment. Not only will they help you enhance efficiency and build up a solid reputation as a reliable provider, they can also present an important ally in the face of danger and unforeseen situations.

Napa - World Class Location For World Class Corporate Meetings

The focus is on Wine Country, but selecting the right hotel property for a small luxury corporate event applies to almost any company in the world. For this discussion, corporate events apply to off-site meetings such as: corporate planning meetings, board of director meetings, client entertaining, incentive/recognition programs, team building, and the list can go ad infinitum. However, the right location and hotel property is as critical as the content of the meeting. Just like a realtor tells everyone--it's all about location; now I also add ambience.The definition of a hotel can also be misleading. In planning a luxury corporate outing to Napa Valley, realize you have choices: Guest Houses (the upscale category of a B&B), 4 and 5 star Resorts, "In Town" Hotels, and private Estates that come with private chef's and concierge's. We will look at all of these in more detail. Just remember, resort's and spa's are in the general discussion of hotels in Napa Valley.An Aldo Gucci quote I often use holds true in selecting any property for a corporate event: "The bitterness of poor quality is remembered long after the sweetness of low price has faded from memory," Aldo Gucci. So choose wisely relative to the objectives of the event because it pays dividends to expect and demand excellence.In a moment we will look at some properties that can be used for luxury corporate gatherings (25 and fewer participants) where there is some level of 'business' will be conducted. But first go through a little bit of planning because that will drive the requirements of a facility/property. Never research properties or do a site visit, without a precise checklist of your requirements; take notes and log your impressions.Here are some top-of-mind checklist items you will want to plan around regarding all aspects of hotel selections: (These will get your thought moving in the right direction.)
Purpose of the meeting-is it a confidential planning meeting, is it vendor appreciation, etc.?
How large will the attendee list be; will it include spouses/significant other? We only work with groups up to approximately 25 attendees, but when most are going to be couples then this makes a big difference.
Focus on the desired tone of the anticipated meeting. For example, is it to be casual for its entirety? Are those invited and expected to attend used to formal elegance where a rustic environment would be frowned upon? (Obviously, there are 5 star properties that are a little rustic; based upon a countrified location for example.)
Are there any security requirements that dictate confidentiality and smaller venues?
Length of stay.
Amenity requirements-24 hour room service, pool, exercise room, spa, gourmet restaurant(s).
Access to appropriate activities for spouse/significant others.
Assess the meeting facilities and equipment. Let me explain in more detail. Most mass production meeting rooms utilize narrow width tables or large round tables with some type of table covering and a very slightly padded chair. This is not acceptable for luxury corporate meeting. You will need caster/tilting and padded chairs; are these available? Meeting rooms are NOT a one size fits all.
Accommodations need to be commensurate with socio-economic level of the attendees.
Now if you think I am being a little picky, let me tell you a quick story about a hotel chain where my wife once worked-The Ritz Carlton. The service requirements mandated by the corporation were often looked upon as minutia. However, a truly 5 star property, even in a sophisticated rural setting like Napa Valley, expects a demanding client. When you look at a room, comment if you see finger prints on a window or a dirty window; they will appreciate clients who know what they want and expect. Lint, stains, and even grout cleanliness should be noted in 5 star properties. Oh well, this is a subject I could go on about for quite some time; but won't.This brings up the second point about selecting properties; it's the ratings we all read about, they are just like wine ratings-most are opinions only. Understand; most evaluations on the web are determined by reader/visitor evaluations. Simply put, there is no consistent science behind on-line evaluations of any property. The star ratings are really a misnomer unless you are using the Forbes Travel Guide (i.e. Mobil Travel Guide) or American Automobile Assoc. The star ratings for hotel you find on the internet are consumer reviews and the reviewer is assigning a rating based solely on their opinion. From these inputs the automated system averages the review rating to give a summary rating. The problem with this is that most readers of these reviews do not know the specific factors that lie behind the reviews. For example, was it a bachelorette party, honeymoon, family retreat, etc.


Here we're focused solely on senior management functions... mostly C Level management in small group sizes.So who or what reviews can you trust? You can only trust your own. That is why you need a very concise and detailed set of criteria to judge each property you have discovered through: on-line research, references, and a good event planner. In any event, the final decision rest with the company. As had been noted in other of my posts, every company has a persona and event locations need to complement that persona.In Napa County I think there are a handful of exclusive and luxury properties that are point-on for small corporate groups (25 and fewer participants that are "C" Level executive caliber). However, there are probably 12 that are considered 4 and 5 star properties, some of which easily handle events of 500 attendees. I would not consider facilities that accept pets, romantic getaways or family festivities to be appropriate for executive/corporate events.Enough of the qualifiers, here is my short list of properties for small luxury "C" Level meetings in Napa Valley. Service levels and attention to detail delivered in a manner of "subdued anticipation"; something should be done and it was, that is 5 star service that works with the ambience of the property. (No particular ranking.) These are well suited for high-end meetings for 25 or fewer attendees.Calistoga Ranch, Calistoga, CAAmbience: Natural Luxury in country setting. Large property.48 large square footage suites, 24 hour room service/concierge, restaurant (gentlemen coat required), and Spa. Provides 24 hour room service.Extremely private with remarkable degree of security and confidentiality. Six years old.Auberge du Soleil, Rutherford, CAAmbience: natural contemporary/Formal French50 rooms in a cottage format that is in a natural country setting.Coat (for men) is required at restaurants.Complimentary bar in room, 2 restaurants and on-site spa, fitness room and 24 hour room service.North Block Hotel, Yountville, CAAmbience: Modern. contemporary boutique-In-town setting. Positioned as 'familiar laid-back'.20 rooms-approximately 400-500 sq. ft. Hotel is 3 years old.Award winning restaurant, in-house spa, 24 hour fitness room, and 24 hour room service.Others that are also highly rated but are large properties and provide a more universal approach to guest services:Meritage Resort-400 plus rooms. Well suited for large meetings and conventions. Napa, CAMeadowood Resort-Great resort with a heavy concentration on sports activities. They have a 9 hole golf course on property. Not private. St. Helena, CABardessono Hotel-Modern with a commitment to sustainability. In-town property. Yountville, CA62 rooms and accept pets.Silverado Resort-geared for families, conventions, with a casual atmosphere. Reminds me of The Del Coronado in San Diego.450 rooms, restaurant, spa, stellar golf experiences, nice service in a stately atmosphere. Napa, CAHonorable mention is The Poetry Inn.-Napa, CAWith only 5 rooms they are not ideal for meetings, but only for that reason, they not the best in Napa Valley. This is a property that has a Villa atmosphere with rooms of 1,400 sq. ft. Meeting room accommodates only 8. They also have pool and spa rooms. They also have a luxury estate home on the property with 3 bedrooms and come with a personal chef. Be prepared for a 3 night minimum stay if you want this elegance.Disclaimer: I have never received any financial consideration or complimentary stays from any of these properties. The information is from interviews and personal visits. There is absolutely no financial incentives in this information. Send me an e-mail if you want my personal favorite.