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  • The Best Kept Secrets From Behind the Hotel Front Desk

    The Best Kept Secrets From Behind the Hotel Front Desk

    Written by: Omar Amanat

    Summary: Think you know everything there is about hotels? Think again.

    Learn the top secrets that managers and hotel management workers don’t want you to know with this guide. You’ll discover things that’ll make you think twice before booking at certain hotels.

    “Walked”

    Are you planning on staying for a “one nighter” at a hotel? Be careful, you might get walked and not even know it yet. The average no-show rate at a hotel is roughly 10 percent daily, meaning hotels will overbook up to 110 percent capacity – to maximize profits. What happens when customers actually show up to their reservations? Someone will get “walked”, and it might just be you. You’ll likely get the boot if you’re: using a deeply discounted rate and seem “less important” to the hotel, never stayed a night before and may never visit the location anymore, and are a “one-nighter”.

    Ask More In-Depth Questions, Get more Efficient Solutions

    If you have a complaint about something, you’re likely to call the front desk directly and ask them to address the problem. Now, keep in mind that the problem isn’t always caused by the front desk at all. So, outline you problem, offer a solution, and ask whom you should speak to in order to get your problem solved. Remember, the front desk will act as a proxy and point you in the “right direction”.

    If you want to make sure that the front desk agent doesn’t just nod and smile but fail to even address your issue, get his or her name. Nothing gets an agent more nervous than being directly pointed out and identified – don’t threaten them just be casual. While screaming may be an effective way to get what you want, it’s not as nearly effective as you might think. And, do you really need to act like a spoiled child to get everything you want? Your morals might need a reality check if you go down that path, yikes!

  • How Public Relations Plays a Major Role in the Success of an Ice Cream Business

    How Public Relations Plays a Major Role in the Success of an Ice Cream Business

    Your business name needs to fit well with the public before success starts to comes.

    ice-cream-shop-businessThe ice cream business is filled with competition no doubt. If you are looking into starting a business on your own, it’s important that you follow these tips so you can maximize your profit and also get your name out to the public.

    PR is King

    Needless to say, getting your name out in the public is one of the best ways to garner interest. If you see people walking around with frozen yogurt cups that have a recognizable logo and a delicious-looking treat, odds are you might be curious as to where they got it from. Because of the ups and downs of the ice cream industry, it’s important that you secure a set of loyal enthusiasts that will always come back for more. The more publicity that you get, the more business will follow.

    Keep in mind though that you personalized ice cream cups aren’t going to be your golden ticket to success. You product has to be unique, creative, and of course delicious. Developing this sort of product out of ice cream, gelato, or even frozen yogurt can be a task on its own. Anyone can serve ice cream with an assortment of toppings, but how many people can think of a new way to spin the idea and find success? This is where you come in. Think like an entrepreneur and work on an idea that will revolutionize the way the public sees frozen treats. Conformity in the ice cream business is often short-lived. Be the one-percent that sees a new idea in the face of saturation and find the success that you deserve.

    Demographics Will Aid You in Narrowing Down Competition

    Starting out, you’re likely to be the odd man out, so to speak. This is why it’s important to find an area that has competition that you feel you can beat. If there’s an ice cream shop that has tons of loyal customers constantly coming in and out, you’re going to have to make such a splash in order to maintain your business. This is where many business fail. They don’t have a unique concept and they resort to just selling a product without any form of creativity. Sure you might have a group of customers come in when you first open, but after that you might see a dramatic drop in traffic. Seek out your competition and determine how well the public enjoys frozen treats. You can even create surveys to get an inside look into what residents around the area feel when it comes to ice cream.

    Gelato Products can help you create the perfect custom printed cups for your ice cream business. Consult with them today for more details.

  • Overnight Train Tours Throughout California

    Overnight Train Tours Throughout California

    Overnight train rides are not only still in fashion, they are one of the most romantic getaways you can take in a place like California. Train rides are all about the journey, but the destination can be fun too (as is the case with the Napa Valley Wine Train). Read on to learn more about some of the most incredible overnight train trips you can take throughout the most beautiful parts of California.

    Napa’s Wine Train

    One part Orient Express, one part time capsule, the Napa Valley Wine Train offers an interesting getaway to wine country. The track was laid back in 1864, and the trains were constructed in 1915. Those restored cars offer all the modern amenities, complete with an observation deck where guests can enjoy the weather.

    San Francisco to Napa Valley

    If you land at SFO, you can take a ferry ride over to Vallejo where you can shuttle to the train that takes you to Napa Valley. The trip is relaxing, and it’s an overnighter. Except for the transitions from one line to another, you’re free to relax and take in the scenery. Make sure you stay at the Napa River Inn, which offers 66 rooms in a Victorian style boutique hotel.

    Final Thoughts

    Did you know you can take a tour of Napa Valley by hot air balloon? Using Balloons Above the Valley, and renting from any of the local motels in the area, you can get a bird’s eye view of the entirety of California Wine Country.

    Archbishop James Provence is retired from the Church and currently resides in Vacaville. James Provence is a volunteer docent with the California Railway Museum.

  • The Top Factors to Consider When Renting a Car in Abu Dhabi

    The Top Factors to Consider When Renting a Car in Abu Dhabi

    Article written by Travel Trade magazine

    Before you sign up for a rental car overseas, be sure that you protect yourself from any fraudulent activity.

    There are numerous factors to consider when deciding on a monthly car rental in Abu Dhabi. First of all, you want to find a reasonable price that’s within your budget. Secondly, you’ll want to deal with a company that has reliable cars and has been in the business for a significant amount of time. Lastly, you’ll need to trust the company that you’re doing business with so you don’t get scammed out of your money.

    Find a Good Price Range

    Car rental prices vary from company to company. Be sure to find a car rental company that offers fair prices for a car hire in Abu Dhabi. However, be sure that you don’t give in to the cheapest prices that you find. It may not be the most trustworthy deal and you may not even end up with a car. There are numerous websites that will showcase how reputable the company is which will give you insight into whether or not you should do business with them.

    Consult With the Company

    A reputable car rental company will explain every detail that you inquire about. Be sure that you ask about the specifics of the contract and be sure that you receive a physical copy of the invoice (or an email) to verify your purchase. The last thing that you’ll want is to end up in Abu Dhabi without a rental car immediately after you touch down in the city. Follow up with your rental the day before you head to Abu Dhabi for added security.

    Monte Carlo Rent A Car, LLC is your home for the finest car lease in Abu Dhabi. The experts at Monte Carlo Rent A Car, LLC guarantee that you will find an efficient car that meets your budget.

  • Things every business traveler should pack

    Things every business traveler should pack

    Written by Costbuys

    Business travel is not as glamorous as some make it out to be. It might seem exciting to jet around the country, meeting clients and living off room service. But there are also rooms to book, airport after airport to go through. Then there is also the hassle of making sure everything else is packed, nothing is lost and that nothing has fallen through the cracks. This is before thinking about the work you are traveling for in the first place. Here are some of the things a business traveler should never leave home without:

    Wi-Fi hotspot

    Even if you could expense it, paying as much as $10 or more per hour of Wi-Fi at the airport is a waste of money. A good alternative is to pick up a wireless hotspot device from a shopping website that can give you Wi-Fi wherever you go.

    GPS navigation

    Car rentals don’t usually include GPS navigation in the basic booking charges. Getting one is one of those hidden charges. Thanks to smartphones, these charges can be avoided. Bring along a car dashboard mount (which can be purchased when discount shopping) and use Google Maps for navigation instead.

    Apps

    Take advantage of the apps on the smartphone to keep track of travel documents. Apps can store the details of tickets, boarding passes, and receipts. This removes one of the biggest hassles for the business traveler, especially those that spends most of the year flying.

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    Costbuys sells weekly and monthly quantities of items, it requires a different way of thinking about your house when you buy online.

  • Save Money with a Colorado Ski Package

    Save Money with a Colorado Ski Package

    Article written by HotelTravellerReviews

    If you are planning a trip but unsure about where to go you may consider booking a colorado ski package. Whether you are booking as a single, couple or group this is a great option for those that are looking for an adventure but also stick with a budget while doing it.

    In order to find the right deals you may consider looking online for reputable companies that can offer entire packages and give you the best price for what you need. To keep costs down you should consider looking for companies that offer all inclusive or even combine the larger parts of the trip such as food, lodging etc. to ensure that you do save the most money possible.

    Consider using Google search to help find the perfect vacation for you and your family. For those that are looking for family ski packages can often save hundreds if not thousands of dollars buy booking everything together instead of separate. For those families who are on a strict budget should use the packages to their advantage to get everything they need to ensure that their family has a good time without going over their budget. There are many individuals who are choosing to book a New Mexico family ski package for their upcoming vacation because of the fun and adventure that it will offer but will help to stay within a realistic budget. For many families the thought of traveling out of the country is just not feasible this is why this option gives them everything they need.

  • London Photo Exhibit Shows Anthropological Importance of Mundane Tasks

    London Photo Exhibit Shows Anthropological Importance of Mundane Tasks

    By Samuel Phineas Upham

    Anyone who has been on social media sites like Twitter, Facebook or Instagram is used to people collecting and sharing mundane images from their lives such as what they had for lunch or the clothes they wore to work. This wasn’t the case in the 1980s, but The Smart Set reports that a new exhibition at London’s The Photographers’ Gallery highlights some prescient images collected by people in England. They were volunteers with Mass-Observation, an anthropological society dedicated to “anthropology at home” and documenting the lives of “common” Brits.

    In the 1980s, Mass-Observation asked volunteers to send in images culled from their daily lives on a variety of topics. Collections such as “Housework and Maintenance” and “Giving and Receiving Presents” show not just how such tasks were accomplished in the UK in the 1980s, but how the people who did them felt and what values they placed on these tasks.

    Read more: http://www.thesmartset.com

    Samuel Phineas Upham Samuel Phineas Uphamis an investor from NYC and SF. You may contact Phin on hisSamual Phineas Upham website or Linkedin page.

  • Top Things to Do in Iceland

    Top Things to Do in Iceland

    Generally speaking, those outside of Iceland have known little about it other than it is a small barren country with extreme weather. This is due in large part to the fact Iceland is located at the top of the world, bordering Greenland. To say Iceland is off any well-paved tourist routes is an understatement.

    So for a long time it was assumed that only those intrepid travelers eager to get as many passport stamps as possible would be ambitious enough to visit a country that most outsiders only knew as having too much snow. But as word gets out about this small Nordic island country, more and more people want to visit. And those that do return with tales of a country rich with natural beauty, jaw-dropping landscapes and a deep cultural heritage. Iceland isn’t just for backpackers anymore – the whole family is welcome.

    So with that in mind here are some of the top attractions for those visiting Iceland for the first time.

    THE BLUE LAGOON

    This iconic geothermal lagoon is one of the few sights known by many people outside of Iceland. Located near the capital city of Reykjavik, this natural spa is said to have special healing powers. At the very least it delivers in supreme relaxation, as there’s nothing quite like wallowing in perfectly warm water amid freezing outside environs.

    GLACIERS

    Something else Iceland is known for – and something it has in abundance – are glaciers. In fact, 11% of Iceland’s total area is covered by these natural phenomena. The small fishing village of Hofn is popular with visitors looking to experience glaciers, as there are many in the surrounding mountains. However, Vatnajokull remains the most popular glacier, as it is the largest in Europe.

    WHALE WATCHING

    Undoubtedly Iceland’s most popular tourist attraction, whale watching is an Icelandic activity that showcases nature in all its awesome glory. There are many locals suited for whale watching in this country but Husavik is generally regarded as the best place to embark on this particular activity.

    VATNAJOKULL NATIONAL PARK

    Home to the aforementioned largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajokull also happens to be the largestnational park in Europe. Not only that, but visitors to Vatnajokull are privy to the natural splendor that is Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. The park also offers world-class hiking across its breathtaking landscapes.

    NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATIONS

    Iceland is best visited during the summer, when the climate is more moderate and the sun hardly sets. And there’s no more festive day during Iceland’s summer than the 17th of June. This date marks the birth of the Republic of Iceland, and parties throughout the nation rage. The bet place to experience the festivities is in the capital city of Reykjavik, as the folklore and concerts are ubiquitous.

    KAYAKING AND RIVER RAFTING

    The best way to experience the glaciers of Iceland up close is on a day-trip or excursion to swirling glacial pools. Not only that, but many tour operators offer adventure expeditions throughout the many fjords and bays around the island nation. Many tour operators also offer popular day trips river rafting down the picturesque Hvita River, which is part of the “Golden Circle” of nature excursions.

    THE GOLDEN CIRCLE

    This is the most popular tourist route in Iceland. It encompasses 300 km, from Reykjavik to the center of the island and back. Tourists on this excursion experience lush valleys, active geysers, majestic waterfalls and massive volcanic craters. It’s the best way to fully immerse oneself in Iceland’s rich natural beauty.

    In many respects, there is a dichotomy to Iceland that is as much about evolution as it is timeless nature. Much of this country’s heralded landscape is untouched and unchanged since the days of the Viking settlers. Other areas continue to be carved out by glaciers and are still taking shape. This all combines to make the country and its wilderness and wildlife a must-see for those looking to experience earth’s unspoiled natural wonders.

    Magnus Hirst is a tour guide and Social Media Coordinator at Icelandic Travel Market, a leading Iceland tours company specializing in bus tours, Iceland day tours, jeep tours, Iceland group travel, glacier walks, whale watching tours and more.

  • How to Rent a Car in Amman Jordan the Quick and Easy Way

    How to Rent a Car in Amman Jordan the Quick and Easy Way

    Article written by Dozen Travel, Reviews of the traveling destinations

    Renting a car overseas can be a nuance if you are unsure how to go about doing so.

    Short term leasing a car in Amman Jordan is similar in how you would do it in the United States. There are the obvious differences such as language barriers and exchange rates, but it’s relatively the same process. If you are unfamiliar with how you go about this process, here are some tips that will help you get started.

    Locate a Rental Office

    Most auto rental organizations have workplaces at the airplane terminal in Amman, be that as it may, they can likewise be found nearby, based on King Abdullah Gardens. The air terminal at Aqaba does not have auto rental offices, in any case, many offices are in the city itself. Queen Alia International Airport car rental kiosks are also an option.

    Reserve a Spot

    Auto rental organizations in Jordan as often as possible have online reservation administrations. In the event that that is impossible, reservations by telephone are just as simple, and convenient. Furthermore, if the organizations have any availability, you might be able to save an automobile on the spot. Most rental offices require a legitimate driver’s permit and a noteworthy credit card for reservations and payments. However, there are a few businesses that will accept debit cards and cash.

    Organize a Pick-Up

    In the event that you can’t get to the rental organization, numerous organizations will drop off the automobile at your area, or lift you up from your area and take you to the rental office. Contact the organization to decide which option you would like to go with.

    Monte Carlo Rent A Car, LLC can help you find a long term car rental in Amman Jordan for the best price. For more information, visit them online today.

  • Turn Your Vacation into an Adventure

    Turn Your Vacation into an Adventure

    By Crystal Seas

    For most of us, we only get vacation for two weeks out of the year. That usually means we only get one big vacation every other year or so. While this might be a bit different for everyone, the point stands that you should want to make your vacation as memorable and amazing as possible. Another trip to the cabin probably just won’t cut it.

    Instead, you should really consider San Juan Island kayaking. This will be a trip unlike anything you’ve ever done before. For one thing, these islands are absolutely gorgeous. They may be some of the most amazing portions of the Pacific Northwest.

    That alone would be pretty great and put most people’s vacations to shame. But then you can add to that the fun of going sea kayaking. San Juan Islands probably has the best kayaking in the entire country.

    Did you know that orcas frequent these areas? Many kayakers actually get to see them up close and personal. Imagine that kind of an experience. Don’t worry either because they never hurt people. They’re just curious about their new friends.

    So the next time you take a vacation, head to San Juan and see these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.

     

    San Juan Island sea kayaking is like nothing you’ve ever experienced. The next time you want to take an adventure for your vacation instead of something boring, just leave it to the team at Crystal Seas.