Most of the world may well have been mapped, trampled over, sailed through and written about, but there are still countless unique and exciting discoveries for you to make. Do you dream of scaling tall Himalayan peaks, diving under the Arctic Ocean or wandering through exotic landscapes and ancient villages? If so, have you got what it takes for a full-on adventure holiday?

Are you a born adventurer who loves the thrill, excitement, magic and mystery of discovery? Or if adventure comes knocking do you hide behind the sofa and pretend you’re not there?

Try this fun quiz to find out how well you’re suited to spine-tingling and invigorating adventure travel.

For each question select the answer that best describes your response.

1)    You are offered the chance to handle a tarantula. What do you say?

a)    Yes please, and take some snaps of me and my new buddy for my Facebook profile.

b)    Er no thanks, but I don’t mind getting close to it for a few seconds.

c)    Arghhhhhh! It’s a spider, A SPIDER! Get it away from me now!

2)    You are on a hike with your friends and you come across a river.  There’s a tree with a rope dangling from one of its branches which would allow you to swing across, do you?

a)    Shout ‘Geronimoooo’, grab the rope and swing over to the other side.

b)    Suggest using it to cross with, but then sneakily let your friends go first to see if they make it.

c)    Declare to the group that this would be a good place to turn around and head back to the comforts of civilization.

3)    Friends have invited you on a boat trip from Spain to northern Italy. Do you?

a)    Don your sea-captain’s hat, grab a pipe and start practicing your best pirate voice ready for some swashbuckling fun on the high seas.

b)    Politely decline and say you’ll meet your friends at their destination.

c)    Worry that the voyage will play havoc with your delicate tummy and that you’ll be eaten alive by sharks.

4)    What would you do if you were asked to taste some exotic food that is barely recognizable to you?

a)    Chew with gusto and comment that you had always wondered what dried tree lizard and cow’s tongue tasted like.

b)    Bravely take a nibble and then pretend that you are not really that hungry.

c)    Ask for a baloney sandwich instead.

5)    Have you ever been to an exotic country?

a)    Yes, and I loved the experience. I can’t wait to plan my next trip.

b)    No, I’d rather stick with what I know, thank you very much.

c)    Yes of course. I’ve even been to different galaxies in Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic. Oh, you mean in real life? Definitely not.

6)    It’s time for your well-deserved annual vacation. Do you?

a)    Close your eyes and put a pin on the map to determine your destination.

b)    Ask your friends for a few ideas. Then ignore them.

c)    Book the same beach resort that you’ve been to every single year since 1992.

7)    You are sitting in a cafe in a foreign country. What do you order?

a)    The local brew, whatever it is.

b)    A cappuccino – well it’s a cafe after all.

c)    A glass of still water. Let’s not get crazy here…

Quiz Answers:

So how well did you do?

Mostly A’s – You are a true adventurer; a person in love with the thrill, challenge and excitement of discovering something new.  The world is your oyster and you want to go out and taste and experience as much of it as you can.

Mostly B’s – You could have the makings of an adventurer with a little encouragement.  You like the idea and possibilities of exploration, but are a little reticent to dip your toes in the water.

Mostly C’s – I am sorry to have bothered you. Please go back to your sofa, tuck into the takeaway pizza and carry on with your channel hopping.

So, if you are a true adventurer what are you waiting for?  It’s time to jump in to find out just how much adventure you can handle.

Author: Daniel Pearson

DIY PROFESSIONAL HAIR STYLING: EZ CURLER

EZ Curler is a revolutionary styling tool designed to give you professional hair salon results in minutes. With the touch of a button, EZ Curler’s bi-plated spinning system curls hair up to the roots, without ever having to turn your wrist. Achieve a wide variety of styles from tight ringlets to create soft, tousled waves. $74.99 – www.ezcurler.com

THE DRESS: EMA SAVAHL

Ema Savahl’s collection of handcrafted designs feature unique patterns and form fitting silhouettes that will make heads turn. Celebrity fans include Katy Perry, Sofia Vergara, Amber Lancaster, to name a few.

FOOTWEAR: CARLOS BY CARLOS SANTANA

Fashionable and affordable (under $100) looks to spice up your Valentine’s Day ensemble:

Destiny $89; Jardin $89; Mixer $99; Serrano $89

Destiny $89; Iconic $99

GIFT GUIDE FOR HIM & HER

JEWELRY: FRANCO PIANEGONDA

The price points are affordable starting at just $125, available at fine boutiques nationwide and SAKS Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus stores as well as in their U.S. flagship boutique in Aventura Mall.

Women’s Magic Hearts Collection:

$660; $165; $285; $125

Women’s Hearts of Gold Collection:

$4,270; $1,030; $7,250; $1,100

MEN’S: Together Forever Collection

$235; $390 $295; $285

Communication Coach Roshini Rajkumar Offers Tips for Friendly Flights Roshini Rajkumar, Communication Coach and founder of Roshini Performance Group, may offer your audience airplane etiquette for the upcoming spring travel season. As we all know, traveling with others on a plane can be a challenge! Roshini offers communication strategies to make yours a pleasant one, along with those seated next to you. After all, nobody wants an Alec Baldwin incident! See below for Roshini’s tips on doing your part to keep peace in the air.

Airplane Etiquette 101

•Use your indoor voice.

•Be aware of how much you drink as to not get tipsy or drunk.

•Share the armrest. The rule tends to be the passengers on the aisle and window each get one armrest; the poor soul in the middle gets two.

•If you are on an aisle or window, lean that direction and give the person in the middle more breathing room.

•When reclining your seat, do it slowly and gently as to not smash the person’s knees behind you. Remember that, although you want to be as comfortable as possible, the person behind you needs leg room as well.

•Use headphone for electronic devices. People around you do not need to listen to your music or movie.

•Store your carry-on above YOUR row. Do not grab the first overhead bin you see. That space belongs to someone else.

•Dress comfortably, but appropriately. Remember you will be sitting next to strangers and they do not need to look at your cleavage the whole plane ride. Be freshly bathed and avoid strong perfumes and colognes.

•Consider using the bathroom when other folks in your row are using it as well. Avoid making people get in and out of their seats several times.

•The window shade is not a toy. Put it up or leave it down. Do not continue to play with it. If putting it down, ask others in your row they mind. Some passengers might need it open for a sense of calm and safety.

•Cell phones should not be used on a plane. Games and other devices should only be used when deemed appropriate by airplane personnel and with headphones.

•Do not bring food on the plane that will have a strong or lingering smell.

•Wait until your row has arrived to leave the plane. There is no need to jump on and clog the aisles. Waiting patiently, in your seat, will make the deplaning process much easier. •Try your best not to be annoyed with kids on the plane. Parents are trying to best to make the plane ride as peaceful and as enjoyable as possible for both their child and for you.

•Offer polite chitchat with your seatmate, but know when the conversation should end. If your seatmate is trying to read or waiting to work, give them the change to use the time how they would choose.

•Carry your bag in front of you as you walk down the aisle. This will help you avoid hitting other passengers as you walk by them.

•Don’t grab the seat in front of you when you are getting up from your seat. You will yank the seat back and bother the person in front of you.

When Traveling with Kids

•Bring all the proper gear for feeding, napping, changing, soothing, etc. so their basic needs can always be met without leaving their seat.

Keep your kids busy. Make sure you bring enough activities to keep them happy.

Do not let them continue to kick the seat in front of them or continuously put up and bring down the tray table.

Be prepared to entertain the entire way. This will not be a relaxing flight for you. You will not get to read your book or take a nap.

Author: Roshini Rajkumar is an executive communication coach and author of book Communicate That!, where she shares insider tips for dynamic communication and authentic presentations. Learn more at www.CommunicateThatBook.com. 

ADT home security Indianapolis is the first phrase I searched on Google when I moved into my new home. My job requires me to travel often, and I’m away from for weeks. For me having reliable security is important but even if you don’t travel regularly it is important to protect your home and family.

Fortunately, technology has made protecting your home easier and more convenient than it has ever been before. There are a few gadgets available that give you access to your home no matter where you are. Here are a few good ones to check out.

Best Buy

Best Buy offers the Home Management Solutions system that gives you the ability to control your home while you travel. You can get up to five cameras placed on your property that will give you a clear image of what is going. One of the first things a criminal will look for is whether or not the lights are on and if it seems like there’s activity going on inside. With the Home Management Solutions system you can set a timer to turn on the lights during the evening when most people are home from work and have them turn off before you go to sleep to give the appearance of you sticking to your regular schedule.

The Home Security Solutions system will even alert you if one of your doors are not locked, and you can adjust the thermostat while away too. Adjusting the thermostat is a great feature because in the winter months you can have the heat off while you’re away to save money and turn it on as you commute back to enter a warm house.

Cost efficient option

If you don’t have the resources to buy an expensive security system with multiple cameras to guard your home there are alternative options. If you have a computer with a webcam you can buy security programs that will stream the video of your home to your phone. Yawcam is one program that you can install on your computer that is simple to use, and best of all, it is free of charge. It has many of the features that the more expensive programs have too.

• Video streaming-Similar to the security cameras you find at the stores you can set up your webcam to give you a view of home to make sure everything is good.
• Snapshots-You can get snapshots sent to you via email if you see someone in your home that shouldn’t be there, and you can take the necessary course of action.
• Schedule-You can set the time you would like to record from and have it turn off when a family member gets home.
• Motion detection-You may not be able to see the intruder on cam but you will be alerted when someone is in your home.

With these home security gadgets you can travel with peace of mind knowing that you can keep an eye on your home no matter where you are.

Author: Meagan Brown

Win a romantic getaway to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Albuquerque, NM – Albuquerque, New Mexico was recently recognized as one of the Top Five Places to Pop the Question, being in a hot air balloon, of course. Wanderlust listed Albuquerque’s signature experience of flying high above the city in a balloon as a top romantic experience. This year, a lucky winner will get to experience that romance first hand with a Valentine’s Day getaway for two.

Albuquerque is known as the Hot Air Balloon Capital of the World. This designation encompasses much more than nine days each October during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Hot air balloons fly nearly 300 days each year in Albuquerque, and ballooning enthusiasts have participated in the Friends and Lovers Hot Air Balloon Rally since 1976 over Valentine’s Day weekend. During this year’s balloon rally, a lucky winner and their guest will be passengers in one of 100 participating balloons.

The Albuquerque Convention and Visitors Bureau is running a contest to give away a romantic Valentine’s package including:

· Two nights of accommodations at the Crowne Plaza Albuquerque

· A balloon ride for two people at the Friends and Lovers Hot Air Balloon Rally on February 11-12

· A $200 Visa card that can be used for a romantic dinner, shopping, airfare or gas.

Enter online at www.ItsATrip.org/valentines.

Contest entries much be received by 11:59pm MST on January 31st. The contest winner will be drawn on February 1, 2012 and must be available to fly at 7am on either February 11th or 12th.

Sample tweet: #Win a balloon ride to @see_albuquerque for #ValentinesDay. Enter by 1/31/12 at http://bit.ly/xjgdcD.

A variety of Valentine’s Day hotel and restaurant specials and events are also taking place throughout the city. In addition to the balloon rally, sweethearts can get together for a salsa dance competition, festive 5K runs, or even a mating tour at the ABQ BioPark Zoo.

On Saturday, February 11th, the Old Town Sweetheart Stroll celebrates love with “sweetheart deals” from merchants, Valentine’s Day dinner packages from 5-9pm and a lovely ambience to stroll with that special someone throughout the evening. Galleries and shops will have extended hours and live entertainment will take place throughout Old Town.

February 11th will also provide a non-traditional look at the complex dance that is love in the animal kingdom with several events at the ABQ BioPark. Indulge your animal instincts with special tours about the exotic, erotic and often curious romantic rituals of animals. Adults may choose from three tours: “Birds and the Beasts” at the Zoo, “Love Bugs” at the Botanic Garden and “That’s a Moray!” at the Aquarium.

Details of Valentine’s weekend events, hotel packages and romantic meals are all available at www.itsatrip.org/deals-packages/getaway/valentine/default.aspx.

London is one of the best places in the world to see pieces of art, as the city centre is filled with museums and galleries. As well as permanent displays, visitors will be able to make the most of temporary exhibitions – and in 2012, there are plenty to put in your diary.

This year, there are more reasons than ever to book a stay in London cheap hotels, as the capital’s biggest galleries are holding new displays over the next 12 months.

Picasso and Modern British Art at Tate Britain

One exhibition that you are sure to not want to miss while on a trip to the city is the Picasso and Modern British Art event, being put on at Tate Britain.

If you come to the gallery between February 15th and July 15th, you’ll have the chance to see some of Pablo Picasso’s most acclaimed pieces of art.

The event also looks at the influence of the Spanish artist on British painters throughout the 20th century.

You will be able to learn about the painter’s reputation around the world, as well as take a look at the work of other artists who were inspired by Picasso, including Henry Moore, Francis Bacon and Duncan Grant.

Leonardo da Vinci: Anatomy at The Queen’s Gallery

For those keen on going further back in art history, the exhibition entitled Leonardo da Vinci: Anatomy could be of interest.

This is being put on at the Queen’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace and visitors will have the chance to take a look at some of the artist’s most famous drawings of human anatomy, including A Skull Sectioned and Studies of the Foetus in the Womb.

These fascinating sketches will give attendees a better idea of the accuracy of the drawings, as well as an insight into the type of work being produced during the Renaissance period.

Yoko Ono at the Serpentine Gallery

If you’re looking for a different type of exhibition to visit this year, you might be keen on heading to the Serpentine Gallery between June 19th and September 9th.

This is because it is putting on a display of art produced by Yoko Ono. While you might be more familiar with Ono as being the widow of The Beatles’ John Lennon – as well as a musician, writer and peace activist – she is also a talented artist, and this exhibition is an excellent opportunity to see some of her works.

The display comes as part of the London 2012 Festival, which will see the entire city celebrating cultural achievements in the lead-up to the Olympic and Paralympic Games being held in the capital this summer.

Yoko Ono at the Serpentine Gallery is the first exhibition in London dedicated to Ono in over a decade, so this could be an excellent opportunity to see her art, in addition to displays about her influence on music and film.

There is a wide variety of exhibitions to see in London this year, so make sure you take time to choose which ones you visit wisely.

You might wish to take in a lot of displays during your trip, or combine presentations of classic artists with lesser-known ones. Whatever you decide to do, you are sure to have an enjoyable time hopping between the capital’s most famous galleries, soaking up the city’s rich culture.

1. Central Park
Be it winter or summer, Central Park is one of the most beautiful parks I have ever been to and considering that this is in the heart of a busy city, that says something. I am a firm believer in the date must not end after a romantic candle lit meal, so make your way to Central Park where you can enjoy a horse and carriage ride around the park while enjoying each others company. If it is a warm summers day, why not enjoy the ripples of the water on a boat ride or visit the Belvedere Castle and the Conservatory Garden, the soothing surroundings will create a lovely romantic atmosphere.

2. Empire State Building
If you are looking to impress, then the amazing views from the observation deck of the Empire State Building will do the trick. This spot has amazing views over the New York skyline and is the perfect setting to end a romantic date with the glow of the city below.

3. Tiffany’s
This world-famous store sells some of the most stunning jewelry, crystal and china. Even though the prices my cause a slight heart palpitation, you could always buy a pastry and window shop outside like Holly Golightly from “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”. If you are feeling bold, and have a little something special in mind for the girl of your dreams, then make your way inside, you will not be disappointed.

4. Ice Skating Rink at Rockefeller Center
Now I am not much of an ice skater myself, but in the name of romance, an hour or two will go along way in keeping the spark between the two of you, especially as you can hold hands, to keep each others balance of course. At night this skating rink is a really beautiful setting between the trees and sparkling lights.

5. Staten Island Ferry
If you want to give your date an unfamiliar, but memorable view of New York, then I suggest you take her on the ferry ride to Staten Island. Why I hear you say? Well for one thing the view of Manhattan is simply amazing and its offers the perfect opportunity to snuggle and gaze out over the water.

6. Lincoln Center Fountain
Even if you cannot serenade your beloved darling with your soulful voice, my suggestion would be to take her down towards the Lincoln Center Fountain, where the illumination at night is a sight to behold and surely is the right spot to get down on one knee and propose to that special someone?

Also, if you just want to sit down somewhere to have a chat and listen to some jazz, then this site is the perfect way to end your date.

For any of us who have visited New York, I am sure we all have our own special places that we consider to be the best, but if you know of any others, I would love to hear about them.

This article was written by Steven, a travel writer and blogger for nycvacationrentalsonline.com, a provider of New York vacation rental apartments.

According to the US Travel Association, domestic and international leisure travelers spend about $526 billion in the US each year! That’s a lot of money to spend on travel, and even though Americans – and many people worldwide – are cutting back a bit on leisure travel these days, we’re still going places. Whether you’re jetsetting to the Italian coast or heading across the country to hang out with some family, you want to look good while you’re traveling. It’s especially important to look great when traveling internationally, since many European countries, particularly, are known for being less casual and better dressed than Americans.

Taking these fashion tips for your next trip around the country or around the world will help you look less touristy. Plus, you’ll look better in all those photos you bring home!

• Base your packing on several classic, neutral pieces that all go together. Mix and match is the key here! When you can create several outfits out of just a few tops and skirts or pants, your bags will be lighter. Plus, neutral colors like white, black, and beiges will help you blend in with the locals and not stand out like a tourist, which can have many advantages – including getting you better prices at some local markets. Black is a particularly good color for travel clothes, as well, because it doesn’t show wrinkles as much!
• Invest in some jeans that fit well. Jeans don’t need an iron, go with everything, and are fashionable around the world – as long as they fit. Your jeans don’t need to be particularly trendy, but they should fit your body type well and look great with any tops you decide to bring.
• Avoid shorts and even short skirts. In most other countries around the world, adults don’t wear shorts for every day wear. Plus, in some very traditional countries women, particularly, in shorts or short skirts may not be looked at askance. In some instances, they may even be denied admittance to certain religious buildings of cultural significance that have modesty laws.

• Get comfortable shoes that look good with everything. You won’t want to be wearing heels or uncomfortable dress shoes when you’re trekking around on a sightseeing excursion, but you also shouldn’t wear gym shoes, either. Comfortable ballet style flats for women and loafers for men look nice with anything and are also easy on the feet.

• Think in layers. One of the reasons it’s so important to have many pieces in your suitcase that all go together color-wise is that you’ll want to dress in layers. Look up what type of weather you can expect for your destination during the time of year you’re traveling, and then prepare for weather that is a few degrees cooler and warmer than that. Always take along a sweater or cardigan that goes with all your outfits, just in case.

• Rely on your accessories. You may think that packing all neutral colors will simply be boring, especially if you’re used to wearing bright or flashy pieces. However, you can dress up your outfits with accessories. Appropriate accessories like scarves, belts, and jewelry don’t take up much room in your suitcases, and they can make your neutral outfits appropriate for many situations.

• Pick the right travel bag. Of course, you’ll have all your main gear in your suitcases, but you’ll also want some sort of bag for when you’re out sightseeing. Avoid fanny packs at all costs, and opt for a more stylish option, like a long-handled purse or a messenger bag. The key is to choose a bag with a strap that goes across your body, so that it won’t easily be stolen. And, of course, you should always be extra careful of where you place important documents like your passport or traveler’s checks!

• Shop in the off-season. Some companies in particular make really great travel clothes that are wrinkle-resistant and generally easy to care for on the road. While these clothes are more expensive, you can save a bundle on them at end of season sales. If you’re a credit card user, Ashyia Hill from CreditDonkey says, consider buying your new travel clothes with a travel credit card so you can earn points toward your next trip. Some include promotional sign up deals.

These fashion tips for world travelers will help you blend in with the locals and look nice from the moment you step off the plane.

I believe having grown up on the Monterey Peninsula, I’m a bit of an expert on the area and as such I’m also a bit picky about properties and dining in the area.

One place that has stood the test of time in my book and in the hearts of so many visitors to the area, is the luxurious Martine Inn in Pacific Grove, California.

The location of this gorgeous property sets the stage for the perfect getaway as it is only a few short blocks walking distance to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, some of the best night life of the area, and fine dining like the Sardine Factory, a locals’ favorite for generations.

Don Martine, a savvy businessman, entrepreneur and famous car collector welcomes road tripping couples at the Martine Inn in the fashion that was customary in the 1800′s, for those of affluence and privilege.

A beautiful balance of warmth and unpretentious hospitality, sheer class and luxury and lovely ambiance make this a delightful stay through and through.

We indulged in the lovely cocktail and hors d’oeuvre hour, while we savored the spectacular view of the bay and resident sea mammals. Occasionally we used the binoculars provided in the parlor, for gazing at frolicking cormorants and playful otters.

The delicious and plentiful cocktail hour food was served on fine antique silver, china, lace and finery and was so beautiful and bountiful a presentation that truth be told, it could suffice as a meal.

Deviled eggs, homemade dips and hummus, cheeses, fruits and vegetable galore were enjoyed by all as Frank Sinatra oldies serenaded us from the parlor.

We enjoyed playing billiards on a century-old exquisite antique pool table, strolling along the coast line, and sitting by the fountain in the delightful garden courtyard.

We decided to dine at the award-winning Sardine Factory only a couple of minutes away and it was perfect in keeping with the theme of a luxurious and impeccable stay on the bay.

Our room was cozy, opulent and comfortable at the same time. And listening to the surf crash at night only added to the enjoyment.

Before leaving the Martine Inn we loved our chef-prepared breakfast overlooking the Peninsula. Don’s chef has been preparing outstanding culinary delights for guests for over two decades.

If anyone is a Road Trips expert it is owner Don Martine, and in more ways than one! Don is a world renown collector and racer of MGs. Don has a restoration shop near the inn where he restores MGs and builds the engines for his beautiful collection. Many cars are on display as well as a fascinating collection of his historic helmets, paintings, trophies and other racing paraphernalia. It’s nothing less than amazing to listen to Don share his passion, his talents, and his stories with regards to these magnificent automobiles that have inspired most of his life.

The Martine Inn also offers Golfer’s Lover, Fireside Romance, Grand Romance, and Ultimate Romance Packages which are tailored to include such amenities as champagne, chocolates, massages, flowers, tee times and other goodies to make your stay the ultimate romantic escape.

Don’s chef can accommodate special groups, twelve course dinners and offers a sumptuous Thanksgiving Dinner as well. The traditional Thanksgiving Day fare – Turkey, Ham and Duck, with all the trimmings is served with Gorham Silver from the 1890′s.

At Thanksgiving, each guest is hand-served additional helpings from the lavish buffet. The fire is roaring, the waves are crashing and all those gathered together are immersed in the spirit of thankfulness and good cheer. Thanksgiving at the Martine Inn is an American Tradition, held in the 1890′s mansion, overlooking the Monterey Bay.

There is even a suite that can accommodate couples traveling together.

Anytime guests visit they will appreciate little extras, such as teas and coffees served on fine china throughout the day along with cookies, a blazing fire in the parlor, gourmet breakfast, and a departing travel bag filled with homemade baked goods and thoughtful road trip goodies.

It’s a memorable experience from arrival to departure with sheer delight sandwiched in between.

Author: Carmel L. Mooney of RoadtripsforCouples.com.

As more people look to enjoy their life by traveling more, whether by working remotely or freelancing during their younger years or as a way to spend their golden years, there are many things that you need to think about before packing up and hitting the road.  Use this as a checklist as you prepare to begin your long-term travel.

Have Online Bill Pay Set Up
Switch all of your accounts to be paid directly through automatic withdrawals from your primary bank account.  If you plan to rent out your house, you’ll want to be sure that your mortgage and utilities are set up so that service can continue without interruption.  Arrange for a management company to take in the rent payment or have the renters pay you through an online bank transfer. Also set your accounts so that they are “paperless” meaning you get them delivered via email or can log in to the company’s site and see your current bill.  While online bill pay is pretty seamless, computer glitches and human error can cause problems, so be sure to monitor your accounts monthly.

Cancel Subscriptions
You don’t want to be surprised one day to find out that you owe for months of premium cable that you never watched, so be sure to cancel, and turn off the ‘auto-renew’ function on your account, any newspaper and magazine subscriptions as well as phone, internet, cable, lawn and garbage services that you may already be signed up for.

Notify Your Bank and Credit Card Company
If you are traveling long-term, especially if you are going out of the country, be sure to tell your financial institutions so they can put a notice on the account to allow out of area and country transactions. There’s nothing like being declined for an important purchase, even though you have the funds in your account, when you are abroad.  Also make sure you know what fees you will incur for using out of network ATMs and using your credit cards in foreign countries.

Have A Plan to Make Extra Money
Those who want to travel long-term should find some way to make extra money while on the traveling to prolong the life of their savings and add to their experiences.  Crafty people might sell their goods at craft shows throughout the country or bargain hunters can scope out thrift stores and garage sales for items to resell, at higher prices, online.  Freelance writing and web design are also other ways to earn some extra cash if you don’t already have a job set up.

Set Up An Emergency Fund
Before setting out make sure to have an emergency fund for true emergencies like when the heater in your RV quits during a mid-Western winter or you are abroad and suddenly need to return back to your hometown.  For each person, aim to have two months worth of your previous living expenses in a savings account that you can easily access.  If you are abroad, you’ll want to make sure that you include the cost of a plane ticket in that amount as well.

Plan to Start Your Travels in Southeast Asia
For those just starting out who want a lower cost of living area to stretch their money while starting to make extra money, try going to Southeast Asia where the cost of living, as well as the standards of living, are considerably lower than North America and Europe.  Your freelance income will go a lot further and you’ll feel less pressure to keep up with the latest gadgets.

Have A Budget
Before setting off, establish a budget to follow so that you can keep track of your money. If you are going abroad, check online to find out about costs in the country you’re headed to.  Expect to have to tweak it occasionally, especially the first few months. Be sure to add to your savings while you travel; don’t spend every dime you make.

Keep Up With Your Tax Responsibilities
Keep in contact with your tax preparer during your journey. Just because you don’t have a mailbox or a permanent job like before doesn’t mean you don’t owe taxes in your home country.  You need to keep up with your responsibilities to the IRS so that they don’t come at you with a bill in the future.

These are among the most important things to do before and during long-term travel to make sure that you survive financially.  Make connections with others who have done or are doing long-term travel to get their suggestions as well.